Blast from the past

SAHIB BIBI AUR GHULAM

Directed by: Abrar Alvi

Released On: December 7, 1962

Did You Know: Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam was submitted to the Oscars. It was turned down by the Academy on the grounds that, in the western culture, “a woman drinking is not taboo.” Shashi Kapoor was the first choice for the role of Bhootnath, but he didn’t get the role after showing up up two-and-a-half hours late for a meeting with Guru Dutt and Abrar Alvi.

HIS GIRL FRIDAY

Directed by: Howard Hawks

Released On: January 11, 1940

Did You Know: Director Howard Hawks adapted the story of His Girl Friday from the hit Broadway play, The Front Page. Actor Jean Arthur was the director’s first choice for the role of Hildy.

SAPTAPADI

Directed by: Ajoy Kar

Released On: October 20, 1961

Did You Know: The famous stage scene, played by Uttam Kumar and Suchitra Sen, portrays the climax of the drama, Othello. The iconic bike sequence of this classic film turned out to be a template for many Bengali romantic tracks.