Remember that iconic red saree from Main Hoon Na? Well, Sushmita Sen recently spilled some behind-the-scenes secrets that are as captivating as the film itself! It turns out, the making of that memorable scene was quite the experience.
In a recent podcast conversation with Divya Jain, Sushmita Sen shared a fun anecdote about her role as the chemistry teacher, Miss Chandni Chopra, in the 2004 Shah Rukh Khan-starrer. While her chemistry with Shah Rukh was undeniable, and the red saree scene is unforgettable, the story behind it is even more interesting.
Sushmita revealed that the conditions on set were far from ideal. "That red saree I was made to wear… it was freezing cold," she said. To add to the challenge, director Farah Khan insisted on using a massive storm fan to make Chandni's hair perpetually flowing. "If Chandni is in the classroom, her hair is flying; if she’s crying, her hair is flying; even if it’s raining, her hair is flying. It was a mandatory requirement for the character," Sushmita explained.
But here's where it gets controversial... or at least, amusing! Sushmita shared that when she first emerged in the red saree, Farah Khan's reaction was unexpected. "Farah looked at me and said, ‘Kya lungi baandhi hai (Why have you worn it as a lungi)? Geeta, take her back.’" The saree was then adjusted, and Sushmita spent the scene worried about it staying in place. Can you imagine the pressure?
And this is the part most people miss... Sushmita initially wanted a variety of costumes. However, Farah insisted on the saree, a decision that ultimately contributed to the character's memorable image.
Main Hoon Na, Farah Khan's directorial debut, also starred Suniel Shetty, Amrita Rao, and Zayed Khan. The film, which was originally slated for a 2003 release, finally hit theaters on April 30, 2004, and received positive reviews. It tells the story of Major Ram Sharma (Shah Rukh), who goes undercover to protect a general's daughter. He also falls in love with Miss Chandni Chopra (Sushmita).
So, what do you think? Did Farah Khan's vision for the red saree work? Do you think the saree added to the character's charm, or would you have preferred to see Sushmita in different outfits? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
