It’s indeed unusual to find a Hindi cinema film without an interval.
Rajesh Khanna and Nanda’s outstanding performances won over fans, making the film a big hit.
In 1969, a Rajesh Khanna movie was launched without an interval, yet it didn’t surprise the audience. Rajesh Khanna and Nanda’s outstanding performances won over fans, making the film a big hit. Surprisingly, the script was crafted in merely one week. And, it marked the third major success in Rajesh Khanna’s career.
It’s indeed unusual to find a Hindi cinema film without an interval. Ittefaq was the final project Yash Chopra directed under his brother Baldev Raj Chopra’s production company, BR Films. Following this film, Yash Chopra established his own company, Yash Raj Films. Notably, Yash Chopra’s first film, Daag, featuring Rajesh Khanna achieved considerable success at the box office.
The screenplay was crafted in a mere week and its runtime is just 1 hour and 41minutes. Akhtar ul Iman promptly penned the dialogues upon receiving the script, and Yash Chopra astounded everyone by completing the entire film within 28 days.
Initially, Shashi Kapoor was the intended lead for this film, but due to unforeseen circumstances, he couldn’t be part of it. However, when Yash Chopra and Rajesh Khanna came on board, it felt like a wish fulfilled for both. Rajesh Khanna even pledged not to discuss his remuneration and decided to align it with the film’s budget. Ittefaq was released in 1969 after Bandhan and Aradhana and marked the third success in Rajesh Khanna’s initial trio of hit films.
It’s interesting to note that just as Rajesh Khanna wasn’t the initial choice for this film, the same goes for the film’s heroine, Nanda. Before her, two other actresses were considered but when those plans fell through, Nanda took on the role, and the film turned out to be a success. The on-screen pairing of Rajesh Khanna and Nanda was also well-received by the audience.
However, it is to be noted that in 1968, Rajesh Khanna went through a dry spell with no film projects. It continued until 1969, leading to concern from his father, who urged him to reconsider his career choices. He advised, “Persistently pursuing a career that keeps rejecting you is unwise. In life, it’s crucial to recognize signs early. Perhaps a film career isn’t meant for you. Give it serious consideration.”
