As the action thriller Mohra, directed by Rajiv Rai, marks its 31st anniversary, the filmmaker opens up about his initial apprehensions, the film's surprising success, memorable music, and its significance in his career.
Rajiv shared that he never anticipated Mohra would achieve blockbuster status. He expressed his fears about audience reception and the film's cast, admitting uncertainty about the music's impact as well. He noted that after watching a film numerous times during editing, it becomes challenging to maintain an objective perspective. Rai emphasized that he often feels anxious about how his films will be received.
The music composed by Viju Shah, particularly hits like Tum Cheez Badi Hai Mast Mast and Tip Tip Barsa Pani, played a crucial role in the film's popularity. Rai acknowledged that while the music was significant, the film's strong performances, engaging storyline, and thrilling action also contributed to its success. He credited Viju Shah as a vital collaborator, highlighting their synergy and the importance of good lyrics, which Anand Bakshi provided.
When asked about the objectification of women in songs like Tu Cheez Badi Hai Mast Mast, Rai stated that such concerns were not prevalent during the film's release. He noted that societal attitudes have shifted, and filmmakers today must be more cautious about how women are portrayed. Rai reflected on the changing landscape of filmmaking and the need for sensitivity in storytelling.
Rai revealed that Divya Bharti was his first choice for the role eventually played by Raveena Tandon. Unfortunately, Bharti's untimely death was a significant loss for the industry, and Rai expressed his sadness over her passing, remembering her as a talented actress.
Rai considers Mohra among his top five films, alongside others like Yudh and Tridev. He emphasized that he never chased awards but focused on creating commercially successful films. The pressure of financial success was always present, and he often found himself praying for the film's acceptance.
Rai discussed the complexities of directing, including the constant need for improvisation and adaptation during filming. He highlighted the collaborative nature of filmmaking and expressed gratitude towards his cast and crew for their support and dedication.
In closing, Rai expressed his appreciation for all the actors who contributed to Mohra, acknowledging that every member of the cast played a vital role in the film's success. He remains thankful for their collaboration and the respect they shared throughout the production.