When Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan solved an 'ego clash' between him, Anand Bakshi during 'Kachche Dhaage'

Renowned director Milan Luthria recently dove into the behind-the-scenes anecdotes of his film Kachche Dhaage, shedding light on an unexpected clash of egos between the legendary qawwali singer Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and veteran lyricist Anand Bakshi.

In a candid interview with Showsha, as reported by Indian Express, Luthria reminisced about the notable incident, revealing that a bit of an "ego clash" had emerged between the duo, with both being revered as esteemed musical artists. The clash was centred around a meeting that Bakshi had proposed, but the logistics proved to be a point of contention.

According to Luthria, Bakshi insisted that Khan should visit his house for the meeting, while Luthria, the director, suggested that the meeting take place at Khan's hotel. "Bakshi sahab kept putting it off," Luthria recalled. Determined to resolve the situation, Luthria took the matter into his own hands. “I went to Khan sahab. He said, ‘Mulakat nahi ho rahi hai beta, gaana kaise banega?’ (We aren’t able to meet. How will we make the song?) I said it will happen in the next couple of days. He said it won’t and asked me to bring my car around."

The filmmaker furthered, "We got in the car and reached Anand Bakshi’s house. We rang the door bell and Bakshi sahab was shocked that Nusrat sahab was there. Bakshi sahab felt very bad that he made such a big deal of this. After that, they became friends. The next day, Bakshi sahab came to him and after that they started working smoothly together.”

Khan, known for his mesmerising qawwalis, had started gaining popularity among the younger generation in India during the late 1990s. His foray into composing music for Hindi films marked a significant phase in his career. Unfortunately, the legendary musician passed away in 1997, leaving behind a timeless legacy, with many of his qawwalis still cherished and recreated in Bollywood.

Luthria's revelation provides a glimpse into the camaraderie and challenges that unfolded during the making of Kachche Dhaage, offering fans a rare behind-the-scenes look at the collaboration between two musical giants.

Have something to add? Share it in the comments