Prakash Mehra

Honoring the memory of #PrakashMehra, a remarkable filmmaker in Hindi cinema, on the 14th anniversary of his passing (17/05/2009).

He was among the trailblazers of masala films, alongside #NasirHussain and #ManmohanDesai. His collaborations with the actor #AmitabhBachchan resulted in numerous sensational hits and timeless masterpieces.

Mehra commenced his journey in the late 1950s as a production controller. In 1968, he helmed Haseena Maan Jayegi, featuring Shashi Kapoor in a captivating double role. Then, in 1973, he ventured into production and direction with Zanjeer. This exceptional collaboration with Amitabh Bachchan marked the beginning of a long-lasting and fruitful partnership, spanning seven more films. Among them, six emerged as blockbuster sensations: Hera Pheri, Khoon Pasina, Muqaddar Ka Sikandar, Lawaaris, Namak Halaal, and Sharaabi.

Their final joint project, Jaadugar, unfortunately faced a setback, concluding their streak of triumphs. Zanjeer holds the distinction of launching Bachchan’s career as a leading actor, while Jaadugar was released during a transitional phase in Bachchan’s illustrious journey.

Prakash Mehra also stood as one of the early Bombay directors who aspired to explore Hollywood. In the late eighties, he embarked on a collaborative endeavor with Frank Yandolino to bring The God Connection to life. This ambitious project aimed to include acclaimed Hollywood actors like Charles Bronson, among others. Despite substantial initial funding, the project ultimately remained unrealized.

Today, we remember Prakash Mehra’s invaluable contributions to the world of cinema, his pioneering spirit, and the indelible mark he left on the industry.

In this photo (L to R): Producer Prakash Mehra, Amitabh Bachchan, Rekha, Vinod Khanna, and Director Rakesh Kumar during the shoot of the movie Khoon Pasina (1977).