Ashutosh Gowariker‘Lagaan’ would undoubtedly be among the defining films of the 21st century. Marking Aamir Khanwhen he debuted as a producer, the film not only stands the test of time, but has grown richer with age, setting a benchmark in commercial cinema, both in terms of storytelling and emotional depth. Interestingly, the behind-the-scenes stories are just as compelling as what is portrayed on screen.
Aamir Khan remembers being scolded Reema Kagti On the sets of ‘Lagaan’
In a recent chat with Just Too Filmy, Aamir shared a humorous incident on the sets of ‘Lagaan’ where assistant director Reema Kagti, who later directed him in ‘Talaash’, scolded him for not being on time for a shot. Recalling the moment, he laughed and said, “Lagaan had so many actors, and he was the second AD. He had to plan all the schedules, such as who would come at what time, who would have breakfast when, etc. Breakfast was 15 minutes away, and I eat slowly, I do everything slowly, so I told them to call 15 minutes before. She scolded me and said, ‘For you, the whole hair and makeup team isn’t coming 15 minutes early.'”He also added: “I’m the producer and he scolds me. I told him: ‘It takes time for me’. He said: ‘I don’t care, you have to come…’ He spoke to me very harshly. I felt hurt. So I said: ‘From now on I won’t have breakfast.’
‘Lagaan’ remains a landmark in Indian cinema
‘Lagaan’, which hit the theaters in June 2001, is one of the greatest achievements of Indian cinema. It remains the last Indian film to be nominated in the Best Foreign Language Film category at the Academy Awards and has also won eight National Film Awards.
