Raj Khosla@100: Asha Parekh Remembers the Director Who Redefined Her Career with Do Badan

Unknown Apr 02, 2026 1,000 Views

Veteran actress Asha Parekh honored the legendary director Raj Khosla on his 100th birthday anniversary, attributing the shattering of her glam-girl image to him through the 1966 classic film Do Badan. At the special anniversary retrospective in Mumbai, Parekh shared how Khosla's imagination and storytelling changed her career, enabling her to demonstrate her depth as an actress beyond dance numbers and glamorous parts.

1. Asha Parekh's Career Transformation

Prior to Do Badan, Parekh was known mostly as a dancing star, and critics questioned her acting prowess.
Khosla's casting her in the tragic romance with Manoj Kumar came as a shock to many in the film fraternity.
The depth in emotions and poetic narration in the film brought Parekh praise from the critics, giving her the confidence to play more serious roles.

2. The Making of Do Badan

Initially, Rakhee was supposed to play the lead role, but Khosla ultimately chose Parekh.
The film’s tragic climax, where both lovers meet their fate, was finalized after discussions between Parekh, Khosla, and Manoj Kumar.
Parekh recalled how audiences wept in theaters, proving the film’s emotional impact.

3. Raj Khosla’s Legacy in Indian Cinema

Khosla was known for his versatile filmmaking, excelling in thrillers, musicals, and romantic dramas.
His movies had strong women characters, which is something Parekh also appreciated.
He choreographed legendary songs such as Lag Jaa Gale, Mera Saaya, and Jhumka Gira Re, which are still considered timeless classics.

4. Retrospective Event and Film Screenings

Film Heritage Foundation (FHF) organized a special event called 'Raj Khosla 100 – Bambai Ka Babu' at Regal Cinema, Mumbai.
Restoration prints of CID (1956), Bambai Ka Babu (1960), and Mera Gaon Mera Desh (1971) were screened.
Director Mahesh Bhatt, writer Amborish Roychoudhury, and Khosla's daughter Anita joined a panel to discuss his contribution to film.

Future Prospects and Cultural Relevance

Parekh highlighted how Khosla's work continues to influence filmmakers, keeping his legacy alive.
The occasion stressed how important film preservation is, with restored classics reintroducing classics to new viewers.

Sources: MSN, LiveMint, Devdiscourse

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