In a delightful trip down memory lane, filmmaker Boney Kapoor recently shared a rare throwback photograph from the set of the iconic Bollywood film Mr. India, a movie that has cemented its place as one of the most cherished films in Indian cinema history. The black-and-white image, posted on Boney Kapoor’s Instagram account on Wednesday, captures a moment just before the shoot began in January 1985, evoking a wave of nostalgia among fans.
The photograph features the late legendary actress Sridevi, actor Anil Kapoor, and the celebrated writer Javed Akhtar, all of whom played pivotal roles in bringing the magic of Mr. India to life. Anil Kapoor is seen in an attire reminiscent of his character in the film, while Sridevi exudes elegance in a long dress, hinting at the iconic status she would achieve with her role as Seema. Javed Akhtar, known for his exceptional storytelling, stands alongside them, dressed casually in a white shirt and jeans. Boney Kapoor, who was instrumental in producing the film, is also seen in the picture, radiating the same charismatic presence that has marked his long career in cinema.
Boney Kapoor captioned the post with the words, “January 5th, 1985, Just before first day shoot ‘Mr India’,” marking the moment when this beloved film’s journey began. The post immediately garnered attention, with fans flooding the comment section with their fond memories and requests for a sequel.
One fan expressed their love for the film, writing, “My favorite childhood film. Part 2 is needed. Anil Kapoor ji and Ranveer Singh as a villain.” Another fan echoed the sentiment, calling Mr. India “the winning team of India’s best children’s film.” The desire for a sequel was a recurring theme in the comments, with many fans urging Boney Kapoor to consider making Mr. India 2. One comment humorously noted, “Anil still looks the same,” highlighting the actor’s ageless charm.
Mr. India was a groundbreaking film in many ways. Jointly produced by Boney Kapoor and Surinder Kapoor under the Narsimha Enterprises banner, it was directed by the visionary filmmaker Shekhar Kapur. The film was a superhero saga penned by the legendary writing duo Salim-Javed, known for crafting some of Bollywood’s most memorable stories. Notably, Mr. India was their last collaboration before the duo parted ways, making the film even more significant in the annals of Indian cinema.
The movie’s success was not just limited to its engaging plot and memorable performances; it was also bolstered by its remarkable soundtrack. Composed by the iconic duo Laxmikant-Pyarelal, the music of Mr. India became an instant hit, with songs like “Hawa Hawai” and “Kaate Nahin Katte” still being celebrated today. The film went on to become the second highest-grossing movie of 1987, solidifying its place as a classic in Bollywood history.
This throwback post by Boney Kapoor serves as a beautiful reminder of the golden era of Indian cinema, when films like Mr. India captured the hearts and imaginations of audiences across the country. As fans continue to reminisce and hope for a sequel, this iconic photograph stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Mr. India and the incredible talent of those who brought it to life.
