Sanjay Leela Bhansali reveals Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s ex-wife ‘forced’ him to work with former: ‘He made me iron and steel…’

Sanjay Leela Bhansali reveals Vidhu Vinod Chopra's ex-wife 'forced' him to work with former: 'He made me iron and steel...'

As an ardent admirer of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s cinematic masterpieces, I find myself utterly captivated by his journey from a boy from Bhindi Bazaar to one of Bollywood’s most revered filmmakers. His story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power of perseverance.


Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s significant debut in Bollywood can be attributed to Vidhu Vinod Chopra. In an interview, the renowned filmmaker disclosed that he embarked on his career in the industry as a long-time assistant director under Vidhu Vinod Chopra, serving for eight years. Gaining entry into Chopra’s team wasn’t effortless; it was Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s ex-wife who persuaded him to hire SLB. He then reminisced about working with the director of ’12th Fail’ for eight years, stating that this experience transformed his life and made him as strong as iron and steel.

In a chat with The Hollywood Reporter India, Bhansali opened up about his tough path into the movie business, explaining how it appeared almost unattainable for a shy lad from the bustling Bhindi Bazaar, who didn’t have self-assurance, friends, or influential contacts, to break into this realm.

He strongly pointed out that the journey ahead would be lengthy and challenging. Furthermore, he gratefully recognized his sister, Bela Segal, for facilitating his entry into Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s office.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the director of Bajirao Mastani, shared that his sister had previously collaborated with Vidhu Vinod Chopra and reached out to Renu Chopra, Vidhu’s ex-wife, who successfully convinced Vidhu to give him a chance. Initially, Vidhu brushed Sanjay aside in his typical fashion, but eventually, he agreed to let Sanjay work under him for eight years.

Sanjay also expressed his ongoing gratitude towards Vidhu Vinod Chopra for the opportunity. 

He expressed, “He was the one who shaped me, both literally and figuratively. Working alongside him for eight years has instilled in me a confidence to tackle anything this world throws at me. To this day, when Vinod Chopra calls, I rise to the occasion and speak with him. This is the debt of gratitude I owe to someone who transformed my life.

In the same conversation, SLB reminisced about his childhood days, mentioning that he originated from a modest building known as a chawl. He lived in a monochrome area of approximately 300 square feet within this structure. He shared how his upbringing in such a tightly packed environment, where every square inch was valuable, influenced his perspective on life. Although the walls of the chawl were devoid of color, his mind was brimming with vivid dreams and aspirations.

Apart from mentioning this, he indicated that these encounters significantly impacted his movie-making process as well as stirred his artistic dissatisfaction. Bhansali admitted that he’s produced substantial films and has earned the privilege to do so; however, it all originates from the tumult of his personal life.

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2024-10-09 06:22