In 2001, Aamir Khan’s film Lagaan created history, not only at the box office but also by representing India at the Oscars. Directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, this epic film was made on a budget of Rs 25 crores and earned Rs 58.05 crores, despite competing with another blockbuster, Gadar. But the journey to bring Lagaan to the big screen wasn’t easy, and Aamir Khan’s decision to produce the film came after much hesitation and thought.
A Script Unlike Any Other
Lagaan was different from other mainstream Bollywood films. Set in the backdrop of British colonial India, it told the story of a small village that challenges British officers to a cricket match to avoid paying heavy taxes. When Ashutosh Gowariker, the director, was finalizing the script, Aamir recognized its potential but was initially unsure about supporting it. In an old interview, Aamir shared that other producers wanted to change the climax of the film, suggesting that Bhuvan, the main character, should stab the British officer instead of winning the cricket match.
Aamir was shocked by this suggestion, realizing that such a change would alter the entire essence of the story. He believed that Lagaan was special because it broke the usual rules of Bollywood films, and he wasn’t sure if any producer would be willing to take the risk to make it.
Aamir’s Dilemma: To Produce or Not to Produce?
Initially, Aamir Khan told Ashutosh that he loved the script but didn’t dare to produce such a different and unconventional film. He was unsure if anyone in the industry would support such a project. Aamir even advised Ashutosh to share the script with other producers and actors to see if they would be interested.
Ashutosh followed Aamir’s advice and approached various people in the industry. However, most of them wanted to change the climax, believing that the audience would prefer a dramatic end with Bhuvan stabbing the British officer. Only a few recognized the brilliance of the script as it was.
Finding Inspiration in the Legends
Over time, Aamir couldn’t stop thinking about Lagaan. Every three months, he would ask himself why he wasn’t doing the film. He found inspiration in legendary filmmakers like Bimal Roy and Guru Dutt, who took risks and created films that broke the mould of mainstream cinema. Aamir realized that Lagaan was his opportunity to do something unique and meaningful, just like his idols had done in their time.
The Final Push: Parents’ Approval
Still unsure, Aamir decided to seek the opinion of the people who mattered the most to him—his parents. He asked Ashutosh to narrate the story of Lagaan to them. The impact was immediate. By the time Ashutosh finished the narration, both of Aamir’s parents were in tears. His father, who was moved by the story, said that he didn’t know if the film would succeed, but he believed that the story was great. His mother also insisted that Aamir should do the film. Their emotional reaction gave Aamir the confidence he needed to take the plunge and produce Lagaan.
Aamir Khan’s Leap of Faith
In the end, Aamir decided to produce Lagaan, and the rest is history. The film not only became a box office hit but also earned international acclaim, including a nomination for Best Foreign Language Film at the Oscars. Aamir Khan’s leap of faith paid off, and Lagaan became a timeless classic that continues to be celebrated today.
