In a fascinating behind-the-scenes revelation, the acclaimed filmmaker duo Raj and DK have shared a unique anecdote about working with the late legendary actor Vinod Khanna on their 2009 cult comedy film '99'. The directors disclosed that Khanna, known for his charismatic screen presence, made a spontaneous decision to perform one of his scenes while genuinely inebriated, a choice that initially left the young directors nervous but ultimately resulted in a memorable performance.
The Nervous First Meeting with a Legend
Recalling the shoot, Raj Nidimoru described the palpable anxiety on set. The team had secured only two days to film Vinod Khanna's extended cameo, as the veteran star was juggling multiple commitments. "We were all scared," Raj admitted. The mere thought of directing an icon of his stature was daunting. Their apprehension eased slightly when Khanna called them into his van to discuss the scene. It was then that the directors noticed he was already slightly tipsy.
"I'll Play It Drunk": Khanna's Creative Choice
Krishna DK stepped in to clarify the sequence of events. The schedule involved three scenes shot in order. Vinod Khanna performed the first scene completely sober. However, after completing the second scene, he summoned the directors back to his van and made an unexpected announcement. "He said, 'Listen, I'm going to play it tipsy. I'm going to be a little drunk,'" DK recounted.
The directors were taken aback but acquiesced, telling him it wasn't strictly necessary. Khanna, however, was insistent, stating, "No, no, it'll be good. I'll play it drunk." DK noted that by this point, Khanna already had a glass in his hand, leading them to believe the actor had premeditated the idea to have a few drinks to get into character. "We decided, let's just take what we get, because we don't know what will happen," DK said, highlighting their mix of trust and uncertainty.
From Nervousness to Admiration
Raj confessed that the decision initially heightened their anxiety. In Hindi cinema, portrayals of drunkenness often veer into clichéd, over-the-top acting. "We were very nervous because usually when actors get drunk, they do the same sort of typical acting," he explained. Their fears, however, were unfounded. Vinod Khanna's performance was subtle and effective. The directors concluded that his slightly elevated state "added some gravitas to the scene," elevating it beyond a standard comic bit.
This revelation adds a new layer to the appreciation of Vinod Khanna's brief but impactful role in '99', a film that remains a beloved comic caper. In the latter part of his career, Khanna was highly selective about his projects, making his turn in '99' a special treat for fans. The anecdote also paints a picture of a veteran actor deeply committed to his craft, willing to use unconventional methods to achieve authenticity.
The conversation with Raj and DK also touched upon other phases of Khanna's life. In a separate interview, his second wife, Kavita Khanna, had previously shared insights into the personal tragedies that drew him toward spirituality and Osho. She mentioned that after a series of family deaths, including his mother's, Vinod Khanna went to an ashram and took sanyas, marking the beginning of a profound spiritual journey.
This story from the sets of '99' serves as a cherished memory of a star who could command the screen with both power and nuance, leaving behind a legacy filled with such intriguing tales of dedication.
