Ajay Devgn’s Father’s Ambitious Request to Mahesh Bhatt: ‘Make My Son an Actor’ – Filmmaker Recalls Chance Encounter on the Streets
Ajay Devgn, who made his debut with Phool Aur Kaante in 1991, is one of the finest actors in the Bollywood industry. Recently, Ajay starred in Neeraj Pandey’s film Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha. Did you know that Ajay once received a recommendation from his father, Veeru Devgan, to work with Mahesh Bhatt?
In a recent interview with India Today, Mahesh Bhatt reflected on his time working as an assistant director in Mera Gaon Mera Desh, where Veeru Devgan was an assistant action director. Bhatt recalled Veeru suggesting that he cast Ajay Devgn in his films.
“He was the one who suggested I work with my son. If he works with you, he will become an actor as he is already a star,” shared the filmmaker.
For those unaware, Ajay rose to stardom with his debut film Phool Aur Kaante.
Mahesh Bhatt also recounted his first encounter with Ajay Devgn in Juhu. Bhatt mentioned stopping his car and calling out to Ajay on the street, sharing the discussion with Veeru about their collaboration.
“He understood that I was serious, and I could see in his eyes that he knew we would work together someday,” he added.
Bhatt then offered Ajay the role in the 1995 film Najaayaz alongside veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah. Ajay was initially intimidated to work with Naseer, but the veteran actor praised Ajay’s performance in the film.
Najaayaz also featured Juhi Chawla, Deepak Tijori, Ashish Vidyarthi, Gulshan Grover, and Reema Lagoo.
Ajay Devgn’s notable works in Bollywood include Vijaypath, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Ishq, Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha, Dilwale, The Legend of Bhagat Singh, and more. His recent film, Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha, released on August 2, opposite Tabu. The film competed with Janhvi Kapoor’s Ulajh.
Mahesh Bhatt is known for directing movies such as Saaransh, Arth, Naam, Daddy, Jurm, Aashiqui, and Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahin.
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