Sanjay Dutt starrer Khalnayak Returns, which was officially announced a few days ago, is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated films of recent times. While the makers announced the production banners on board, the credit list didn’t include the director’s name, raising speculations about who would be chosen to direct the sequel. Meanwhile, many were also wondering whether Subhash Ghai, who directed Khalnayak (1993), would return to direct the sequel. In a recent interview, Subhash Ghai opened up about his thoughts on the sequel, and why he would not want to direct Khalnayak Returns.
In an interview with Bombay Times, Subhash Ghai said that Sanjay Dutt was keen on making a sequel to his 1993 film for the longest time. “Even during his jail time, he had written to me about it. That’s when I sent him the concept and story. If you ask me, nobody can make this film the way I did.” Elaborating on reasons for not willing to direct Khalnayak Returns, the filmmaker said, “I don’t want to remake my own film. Besides, I am 80.”
At the same time, the renowned filmmaker also stated that he would be open to make a cameo appearance in Khalnayak Returns, as he is known for doing so in almost each of his directorials, be it Yaadein, Saudagar, or Pardes. He said, “Sanju is like my son. I also did one for Shah Rukh Khan in Om Shanti Om. I cherish the relationships I’ve built in the industry over the years.”
Released in 1993, Khalnayak was one of the most talked-about films of its times for many reasons. Besides Sanjay Dutt’s menacing act as Ballu Balram, the film also grabbed attention for its tantalising soundtrack, including the ‘Choli Ke Peeche’ song which was one of the most controversial events of Hindi cinema of those times.
