When Dev Anand wanted to touch Rajeev Khandelwal’s feet, veteran said ‘you inspire me a lot’

When Dev Anand wanted to touch Rajeev Khandelwal's feet, veteran said 'you inspire me a lot'

As a lifestyle expert, I deeply appreciate the rich legacy of Dev Anand in the Hindi film industry. His impact and influence on Indian cinema are immeasurable, with iconic films like Guide, Jewel Thief, Hum Dono, C.I.D., Kala Pani, Johny Mera Naam, and Hare Rama Hare Krishna continuing to captivate audiences even today.


Dev Anand, a revered figure in Hindi film industry lore, left an indelible mark with his exceptional acting skills. He is fondly remembered through iconic films such as Guide, Jewel Thief, Hum Dono, C.I.D., Kala Pani, Johny Mera Naam, and Hare Rama Hare Krishna, to name but a few. Over the course of several decades, this accomplished actor made a significant impact on Hindi cinema.

As an obsessed fan of both Dev Anand and Rajeev Khandelwal, I can’t help but imagine how amazing it would have been if these two cinematic legends had worked together. And according to Rajeev himself, that was once a possibility! Here’s his account of their first encounter, in his own words:

Rajeev Khandelwal recalls meeting Dev Anand after his debut in Aamir

In an interview with Radio Nasha, Rajeev Khandelwal recounted his encounter with the legendary actor Dev Anand when the latter invited him for a film project in 2008. Although Khandelwal declined the opportunity to join the movie, he was eager to meet Dev Anand nonetheless.

The Aamir actor recalled that Dev Anand was the only person he brought his camera to.

Khandelwal expressed that he rarely makes physical contact with people’s feet, but only when he deeply reveres and respects the elderly individuals in his life, such as Dev Anand, whom he touched at the age of 48.

“I paid a visit to Dev saab and respectfully placed my hands at his feet. Surprised, he questioned, ‘What’s the reason for this action?’ In response, I shared, ‘Sir, you have always left an inspiring impact on me.'”

In his own words, Dev Anand expressed, “If it’s true, then I ought to pay my respects since your youthfulness greatly motivates me.”

Khandelwal was surprised by Dev Anand’s gesture of treating him with the utmost respect.

Rajeev Khandelwal asked Dev Anand about botox

During the same interview, Rajeev Khandelwal recounted that after their initial meeting, he managed to take a photograph with Dev Anand. He admitted to asking rather foolish questions of the late star, such as inquiring if Anand had undergone any botox treatments.

According to Khandelwal, Dev Anand’s complexion appeared remarkably youthful. He chuckled at the observation before urging him to focus on positive thoughts and happiness.

The legend narrated the story of his script, however, later Khandelwal refused to work with him.

I was utterly disheartened as I had to decline an opportunity to work with Dev Anand and his esteemed Navketan Films. This decision weighed heavily on me, especially since the legendary actor tragically passed away due to cardiac arrest at the age of 83 in 2011.

Rajeev Khandelwal’s notable films include Aamir, Table No. 21, Shaitan, and Court Martial.

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2024-07-24 01:52