Rekha shared how filming an intense scene in Silsila was particularly challenging with an audience of 15,000 people watching. Despite the film’s status as a cult classic today its production had its share of obstacles. In a past interview Rekha recalled how daunting it was to perform such an emotional scene with such a large crowd present on set.
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A Difficult Request
Rekha described the moment: The scene was incredibly intense and there were 15,000 people on set at five in the morning. I had significant lines to deliver along with emotional crying. I requested Yashji for some extra time but he refused.
Amitabh Bachchan Lightens the Mood
At that point Amitabh Bachchan stepped in to help ease Rekha’s nervousness. She humorously recalled Amitji shared an incident about James Dean while filming Giant. James faced a similar situation and in his own quirky way turned around and urinated in front of the crowd. It instantly boosted his confidence. He thought to himself What could be worse than this? and delivered a flawless performance.
A Calming Effect
Rekha explained that the story had a calming effect on her. I told Amitji Excuse me but that actually makes me feel a lot better. He replied I don’t mean it literally but you get the idea this is acting she added with a smile.
A Grateful Gesture
Once the scene was completed Rekha expressed her gratitude by hugging Amitabh, which sent the crowd into a frenzy of excitement. She shared As soon as they heard Start camera action the entire crowd fell silent. By the end when I hugged Amitji everyone went Ooooh. It was so hard for me to keep a straight face.
The On-Screen Chemistry and Rumors
Amitabh Bachchan and Rekha’s undeniable on-screen chemistry in Silsila led to numerous rumors about their relationship over the years. In addition to Silsila the two starred together in several other iconic films including Do Anjaane, Mr. Natwarlal, Suhaag, Muqaddar Ka Sikandar and more.