On an emotionally charged episode of Karan Johar’s popular chat show Koffee With Karan 8, Bollywood’s cherished mother-son duo, Sharmila Tagore and Saif Ali Khan, shared the couch and their hearts with the audience in a rare joint appearance. The veteran actress Sharmila Tagore, who is revered for her grace and an illustrious career in Indian cinema, made a profound revelation which left viewers and fans in a state of respect-filled concern. For the very first time, Tagore candidly spoke about her diagnosis and struggle with cancer.
The conversation took a moving turn when the host, Karan Johar disclosed that he had approached Tagore for a role in his forthcoming film ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani’. The role was later filled by the equally legendary Shabana Azmi after Sharmila could not accept the offer due to severe health concerns. Johar expressed a sentimental regret during this revelation, lavishing praise on Tagore’s talent and lamenting the missed opportunity to work with her on this occasion. “I had offered Sharmila ji the part played by Shabana Azmi in ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani’. She was my very first choice. Due to health reasons at that time, she couldn’t say yes, but it is a regret I have,” Karan confessed on the show.
Sharmila, with her characteristic poise, responded to the regretful sentiment with a poignant elaboration of her circumstances at the time of the offer. The world was grappling with the onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic, and vaccines were yet to be rolled out universally. It was amidst this uncertainty and her susceptible health condition post her cancer journey that the decision was taken. “This is at the height of Covid. They hadn’t really grappled with Covid at that time. They didn’t know the vaccine… We were not vaccinated. You know, after my cancer. So, they didn’t want me to take that risk,” explained Sharmila, providing insight into the precarious health considerations that influenced her decision.
Sharmila Tagore, who has been an integral part of Indian cinema with a career spanning over five decades, took a hiatus from acting which many speculated was due to personal reasons. However, her return to the silver screen in the film ‘Gulmohar’, where she portrays a queer character, marked an inspirational comeback. It is also a testament to her enduring dedication to the craft of acting and her willingness to explore diverse and unconventional roles.
The tone of the interview shifted to a lighter note as the acclaimed actress delved into Saif Ali Khan’s personal life, particularly regarding his elopement with then-actress Amrita Singh. Saif admitted to his impulsive decision to marry at a tender age of twenty without informing his parents – a move he now reflects upon as being understandably distressing for them. The couple’s ultimately transient union brought forth many joyous moments, with Sharmila recalling their laughter and ability to entertain each other. “There was a lot of laughter, a lot of mimicking other people. He is good at mimicry and she is a great storyteller. So, they looked very happy together,” Sharmila fondly reminisced about the couple’s early days.
Saif and Amrita Singh’s relationship, which did not stand the test of time, concluded after a 13-year journey. Yet, Sharmila remembered their marriage as harmonious and brimming with humor and happiness. Saif, appreciative of his parents’ support despite the way he had approached his marriage, acknowledged their understanding and love.
This episode of Koffee With Karan stood out as a moment of vulnerability and strength shared between the charismatic host and his esteemed guests. It brought to light the personal hurdles faced by public figures and echoed a message of resilience and the strength of familial bonds in facing life’s adversities.
