BAGHBAAN (2003)

Starring: Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini, Salman Khan, Mahima Chaudhary, Paresh Rawal, Aman Verma, Suman Ranganathan and Asrani
Director: Ravi Chopra
Producer: B. R. Chopra
Music: Aadesh Shrivastava

PREDICTED RATING: 6/10

Bollywood's living legend Amitabh Bachchan returns to the big screen once again the family drama Baghbaan, supported by some of the biggest names in the industry, including Hema Malini, Salman Khan and Mahima Chaudhary. The film, which is directed by Ravi Chopra, looks at the changing relationship between parents and their adult children. The inspiration actually came after producer B. R. Chopra visited an elderly people's home abroad and talked to residents about their experience of living away from their children. He was so moved by the stories that he decided there and then to make a movie covering the subject.

However since some time has passed between making this decision and the film actually being produced, there have been quite a few changes in the cast of Baghbaan. For starters, Dilip Kumar was the original choice for the lead role, which has now been enacted by Amitabh Bachchan. The adopted child in the film, now played by Salman Khan, was first offered to Shah Rukh Khan, whilst the girlfriend of the character was given to Juhi Chawla and later Mahima Chaudhary. One of the sons, now played by Aman Verma, was originally offered to Mohnish Behl too. However the game of musical chairs in the casting department eventually settled down and the final lineup has proved quite impressive.

Baghbaan is the story of a large Indian family, headed by Raj Malhotra (Amitabh Bachchan), together with his glamorous wife Pooja (Hema Malini) and their four sons. The two parents have raised the family with dedication and love. The end result is full of success since all four sons have eventually settled down nicely in their respective professions. However following Raj Malhotra's retirement, the emotional man is devastated when neither of his children wants to support the parents in their old age. The aging couple must even depend on the kindness of strangers. Must they struggle alone or will their sons return the love they were given during childhood? Salman Khan, in a special appearance, plays Raj Malhotra's more kind hearted adopted son whilst Mahima is his girlfriend who eventually becomes his wife.

SCHEDULED RELEASE DATE: October 2003

PREVIEWED BY ROBEEL HAQ