Shah Rukh Khan Produced Ittefaq Without Reading the Script, Called Interest ‘Haraam’: Renu Chopra

Bollywood’s King Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, once again proved his generosity and goodwill when he backed Abhay Chopra’s 2017 thriller ‘Ittefaq’ without even reading the script! The revelation comes from Renu Chopra, wife of late filmmaker Ravi Chopra, who recently shared how SRK stood by her family during the making of the film.

In an exclusive conversation with Pinkvilla, Renu Chopra recalled how SRK didn’t just support the project but also refused to charge any interest on the financial backing, calling it ‘haraam’ (forbidden in Islam). The film, which starred Akshaye Khanna, Sidharth Malhotra, and Sonakshi Sinha, was a remake of the 1969 Rajesh Khanna classic and was directed by Abhay Chopra.

Shah Rukh Khan’s Unwavering Support for Ittefaq

Renu Chopra recounted how SRK’s Red Chillies Entertainment joined hands with Dharma Productions and BR Studios to co-produce ‘Ittefaq’. She mentioned that despite his extremely busy schedule, Shah Rukh ensured that the project took off smoothly.

“Now, Shah Rukh had only done guest appearances for us. When we had to make Ittefaq… Shah Rukh’s office and our office share a wall. We just decided to do it with him,” Renu Chopra said. She further added how SRK’s respect for elders was evident in their interactions.

“I asked him, ‘Should I come?’ He said, ‘No, no, Renu ji, you won’t come, I will come’. Out of respect, since I am senior. But then three weeks passed, and I had to go myself because he is such a busy man!” she laughed while recalling the incident.

SRK’s Generosity Goes Beyond Business

What truly stood out was Shah Rukh Khan’s ethical approach to business. Renu Chopra revealed that when it came to finances, SRK outright refused to charge interest, saying it was against his beliefs. “He said interest is haraam, and he will never take it,” she shared.

This gesture is just another example of why SRK is not just a superstar but a man with a golden heart. Over the years, he has helped numerous filmmakers and artists without seeking financial gains, proving why he continues to command immense love and respect in Bollywood.

Ittefaq: A Cult Thriller

‘Ittefaq’ was a critically acclaimed film that gained popularity for its gripping storyline and power-packed performances. Akshaye Khanna’s intense portrayal of an investigating officer was widely appreciated, and the film’s suspense-driven narrative made it a hit among thriller lovers.

Even though SRK was not part of the cast, his presence as a producer ensured that the film got the right treatment and marketing push. With a strong storyline and a tight runtime, ‘Ittefaq’ successfully engaged audiences and performed decently at the box office.

Shah Rukh Khan’s Impact on Bollywood

Shah Rukh Khan is not just an actor but also a producer with an eye for meaningful cinema. His ability to support filmmakers, especially young talents, showcases his deep commitment to the growth of the Hindi film industry.

From producing unique content under Red Chillies Entertainment to mentoring new-age directors, SRK continues to shape the industry in multiple ways. His involvement in ‘Ittefaq’ without reading the script and his refusal to charge interest reflect his trust in talent and relationships over monetary benefits.

Behind the Scenes of Ittefaq’s Production

The production of ‘Ittefaq’ was filled with challenges, yet the dedication of the team ensured that the film reached audiences in its best form. Director Abhay Chopra, who carried forward the legacy of BR Chopra’s original 1969 film, had a daunting task of modernizing the thriller while retaining its essence.

The movie was shot over a short span, maintaining a fast-paced and engaging screenplay. Akshaye Khanna, playing the determined investigating officer, received praise for his stellar performance. Sidharth Malhotra and Sonakshi Sinha’s portrayals added depth to the characters, making the movie an enjoyable suspense thriller.

One of the key aspects that made ‘Ittefaq’ stand out was its no-song format. Unlike most Bollywood films that rely on song sequences, this film stayed true to its genre by keeping the narrative tight and engaging without unnecessary distractions.

How Ittefaq Revived the Suspense Thriller Genre

Suspense thrillers have a niche audience in Bollywood, with only a handful of them succeeding at the box office. ‘Ittefaq’ revived interest in the genre, proving that content-driven cinema still has a place in the mainstream industry.

Shah Rukh Khan’s involvement in the production gave the movie the credibility it needed. His vision of backing films that offer something unique to the audience was evident in this project. Unlike big-budget masala entertainers, ‘Ittefaq’ focused on storytelling, compelling performances, and an edge-of-the-seat experience.

SRK’s Legacy of Supporting Filmmakers

Over the years, Shah Rukh Khan has been instrumental in bringing fresh talent to Bollywood. His Red Chillies Entertainment has backed numerous films that might not have been possible without his support.

Movies like Dear Zindagi, Badla, and Kaamyaab are examples of his dedication to meaningful cinema. By supporting ‘Ittefaq’, he once again showcased that his commitment is not just towards commercial success but also towards uplifting good storytelling.

Final Thoughts

Shah Rukh Khan’s unwavering support for ‘Ittefaq’ is yet another testimony to his kind-hearted nature and generosity. His decision to back the film, without even glancing at the script, shows his belief in Abhay Chopra’s vision. More than just a film producer, SRK’s ethical business approach and loyalty to his industry friends make him a true Badshah of Bollywood.

In an industry where financial security often dictates creative choices, SRK’s refusal to charge interest is a rare example of selflessness. His respect for relationships over monetary gains continues to make him a cherished figure in Indian cinema.

‘Ittefaq’ remains a memorable thriller that not only entertained audiences but also highlighted the importance of strong storytelling. As Bollywood moves towards a more content-driven approach, films like ‘Ittefaq’ pave the way for meaningful cinema that doesn’t rely on unnecessary glamour.

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