In a heartwarming revelation that bridges generations of Bollywood cinema, actor-director Jugal Hansraj has shared an emotional anecdote about veteran star Dharmendra's reaction to the classic film Masoom and the surprising reason behind his own decision to turn down Shekhar Kapur's directorial masterpiece.
The Emotional Screening That Moved a Legend
Jugal Hansraj, who was famously considered for the lead role in Masoom, recently disclosed that Dharmendra attended a special screening of the film and had an unexpectedly emotional response. "Dharmendra cried during the film and actually hid his face so no one could see his tears," Hansraj revealed, painting a poignant picture of the typically stoic actor's vulnerable moment.
Why Jugal Hansraj Said No to Masoom
In what might be one of Bollywood's most intriguing 'what if' stories, Hansraj explained his decision to decline the role that eventually made child actor Jugal Hansraj a household name. "I was Shekhar Kapur's first choice for Masoom, but I turned it down," he confessed, adding layers to the film's already rich behind-the-scenes history.
The reasons behind this career-defining decision stemmed from practical concerns that seemed significant at the time but now form part of Bollywood folklore. Hansraj's revelation provides fascinating insight into the calculations young actors must make and how seemingly small factors can alter the course of film history.
Dharmendra: The Biggest Fan Nobody Knew
The image of Dharmendra, known for his tough-guy roles and action-hero persona, being moved to tears by the emotional depth of Masoom adds a new dimension to our understanding of the veteran actor. Hansraj's account reveals Dharmendra as not just a performer but as a genuine cinephile who connected deeply with meaningful storytelling.
This revelation comes as part of a larger trend of Bollywood veterans and contemporary artists sharing previously unknown stories about classic films, helping to preserve the rich oral history of Indian cinema while giving fans new perspectives on beloved movies.
The Legacy of Masoom Continues
Despite Hansraj's initial rejection of the role, Masoom went on to become one of the most beloved films of the 1980s, celebrated for its sensitive portrayal of family dynamics and its timeless musical score. The film launched Shekhar Kapur's directorial career and established a new standard for emotional storytelling in Indian cinema.
Hansraj's revelations about Dharmendra's emotional response and his own casting decision add another layer to the film's enduring legacy, proving that even decades after its release, Masoom continues to reveal new stories and touch hearts across generations of film lovers.
