Amrish Puri was arguably one of the finest actors in the Indian film industry. He was so prolific that no Hindi film was complete without his presence. With his intense baritone and imposing presence, Puri always managed to bring magic to the characters.
After making his acting debut as a small-time hoodlum in 'Prem Pujari' in 1970, Puri went on to become one of the most renowned and credible actors in the history of Indian cinema, especially with his villainous roles as Mogambo in 'Mr India', Jagavar in Vidhaata, Balwant Rai in 'Ghayal', Barrister Chadda in 'Damini' and Thakur Durjan Singh in 'Karan Arjun'.
One can't also forget his role as Baldev Singh, a strict father in Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge'. Unfortunately, the versatile actor left for his heavenly abode on January 12, 2005, following a prolonged illness. It's been 18 years since Puri passed away and he is still fondly remembered by cinephiles due to his evergreen screen image. Undoubtedly, credits go to his iconic dialogues that still echo in our heads.
On Puri's death anniversary, let's have a look at the iconic dialogues only he could have pulled off.
1. Mogambo Khush Hua
This iconic dialogue of Amrish Puri was featured in 'Mr. India', which was released in 1987. The film starred him as a megalomaniac dictator Mogambo who became one of the most recognizable villains in the history of Bollywood. Anil Kapoor and Sridevi were among the other actors in the movie.
2. Ja Simran Jaa, Jee Le Apni Zindagi
Most people treasure 'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge' for Shah Rukh-Kajol's romantic chemistry but there are also who watch the evergreen movie for Amrish Puri. The actor's role of Chaudhary Baldev Singh, also known as Bauji, completely blew everyone's minds. He portrayed a strict Indian father who at first opposed his daughter's love but ultimately decided to let her go. It was during the climax when Puri said "Ja Simran Ja Jee Le Apni Zindagi" dialogue to Kajol.
3. Aao Kabhi Haveli Pe
This dialogue of Amrish Puri from the film 'Nagina' has definitely aged better. Over the years, 'Aao Kabhi Haveli Pe', it became one of the favourite one-liners for meme creators.
4. Itne Tukde Karunga Ki Tu Pehchana Nahin Jayega
When Puri played Ashraf Ali in the 2001 movie 'Gadar-Ek Prem Katha', he succeeded in making you despise the character, which is a sign of a great actor. Later, his dialogue from the movie "Itne Tukde Karunga Ki Tu Pehchana Nahin Jayega" became very well-known.
5. Koi Bhi Jhooth Itna Mahan Nahi Hota Ki Jiske Saamne Sar Jhukaya Jaye
Puri delivered this hard-hitting dialogue in the film Jhooth Bole Kauwa Kaate, which was released in 1998. The film featured Anil Kapoor and Juhi Chawla in lead roles.
(ANI)
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.