As a die-hard fan of R Balki’s cinematic genius, I can’t help but marvel at his incredible journey and the fascinating tales behind his films. The story of Cheeni Kum, shot with borrowed equipment from Salman Khan’s movie sets, is a testament to his unwavering passion for storytelling.
Director R. Balki, famously recognized for films such as Paa, Ki & Ka, Cheeni Kum, and more, most recently directed Abhishek Bachchan and Sayami Kher in Ghoomer (2023). In a recent interview, Balki disclosed that the film Cheeni Kum, starring Amitabh Bachchan and Tabu, was filmed using equipment borrowed from Salman Khan’s movie sets due to financial constraints. The director admitted that he couldn’t afford to purchase it himself.
During a recent discussion at MIT World Peace University, R Balki explained that Cheeni Kum was produced with a limited budget and he wasn’t familiar with cinema finances at the time. Reflecting on his experiences in 2007, the director admitted it was challenging to secure funding for his movie. To get around this, Balki even borrowed a crane (jib) from the set of Salaam-E-Ishq, which had a production budget of approximately Rs 60-70 crores.
In the production of Salaam-e-Ishq at Trafalgar Square, funds were limited so we couldn’t afford a crane (jib). During breaks on that set, the crane was moved to the Cheeni Kum location without a camera operator (focus puller). With only one camera, the director explained this was our situation.
Filmmaker R Balki pointed out that even though megastar Amitabh Bachchan was involved in his movie productions, it didn’t improve their financial status. He recalled that the London-based studio they worked with didn’t fully appreciate Big B’s stardom. Despite considering Bachchan to be a Rs 500 crore star, the studio seemed unaware of this fact.
As an ardent admirer, I can’t help but reflect on the magical collaboration I shared with Sunil Manchanda in bringing Cheeni Kum and Salaam-E-Ishq to life, starring none other than Amitabh Bachchan and Tabu. You see, these two films were filmed concurrently in the enchanting city of London. This incredible opportunity was presented by Sunil Manchanda himself when he offered both projects to the studio. In a jovial manner, I can’t help but recall his words, as I felt like a “discount offer” amidst this fantastic deal!
In a nod to Love, the movie titled “Salaam-E-Ishq” boasted an impressive lineup of actors such as Salman Khan, Priyanka Chopra, Akshaye Khanna, Ayesha Takia, Anil Kapoor, and Juhi Chawla. Behind the camera, Nikkhil Advani served as the director. The romantic drama additionally featured talents like Vidya Balan, John Abraham, Govinda, Shannon Esra, Sohail Khan, and Isha Koppikar.
In January 2007, Salaam-E-Ishq debuted, while Cheeni Kum made its appearance on screens in May of that year.
R Balki first stepped into directing with the film “Cheeni Kum.” Some other films he’s known for are “Shamitabh” and “Padman.
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2024-11-16 13:38