Background of the Story
Om Shanti Om, a 2007 Indian romantic action film directed by Farah Khan, is often regarded as a modern adaptation of the classic 1975 film Sholay. However, the story behind the making of Om Shanti Om is as intriguing as the film itself. Let’s delve into the true story of Om Shanti Om.
Om Shanti Om: The True Story
Om Shanti Om was initially planned as a biopic on the life of the legendary actor Rajesh Khanna. However, Farah Khan, the director, decided to change the concept after a conversation with her father, Salim Khan, who was a close friend of Rajesh Khanna. Salim Khan suggested that the film should be a tribute to the golden era of Hindi cinema.
Farah Khan, who had always been fascinated by the 1970s, decided to create a film that would pay homage to the era’s iconic films and actors. She wanted to create a story that would appeal to both the young and the old, and she believed that Om Shanti Om would be the perfect vehicle for this.
The Characters
The film revolves around the character of Om Prakash Makhija, played by Shah Rukh Khan. Om is a struggling actor who is inspired by the great actors of the 1970s. He dreams of becoming a star, but his life takes a turn when he discovers that he is the reincarnation of the iconic actor Rajesh Khanna.
The film also features the character of Shanti, played by Deepika Padukone. Shanti is a modern-day actress who is struggling to find her identity in the film industry. She meets Om and falls in love with him, unaware of his connection to the past.
The Making of the Film
The making of Om Shanti Om was a labor of love for Farah Khan. She wanted to create a film that would capture the essence of the 1970s, and she went to great lengths to ensure that the film was authentic. The film’s sets were designed to look like the sets of the 1970s, and the costumes were meticulously crafted to reflect the era.
Farah Khan also wanted to pay tribute to the actors of the 1970s, so she cast actors like Amitabh Bachchan, Shashi Kapoor, and Jaya Bachchan in key roles. These actors, who were icons of the 1970s, brought a sense of nostalgia to the film.
The Reception of the Film
Om Shanti Om was released in 2007 and received both critical acclaim and commercial success. The film was praised for its storytelling, direction, and performances. It was also appreciated for its tribute to the golden era of Hindi cinema.
The film’s music, composed by AR Rahman, was another highlight. The songs, which were reminiscent of the 1970s, became chart-toppers and are still remembered today.
The Legacy of Om Shanti Om
Om Shanti Om has left a lasting impact on the Indian film industry. It has been hailed as a classic and has inspired many filmmakers to create films that pay homage to the past. The film has also been credited with reviving the interest in the 1970s among the younger generation.
Om Shanti Om is not just a film; it is a journey through time, a celebration of the golden era of Hindi cinema, and a tribute to the actors who made it great. It is a story that will continue to be told for generations to come.
| Year | Film | Om Shanti Om |
|---|---|---|
| 1975 | Sholay | Om Shanti Om (Adaptation) |
| 2007 | Om Shanti Om | Release Year |
