Seasoned actor Yashpal Sharma, widely recognized for his role as Lakha in Ashutosh Gowariker’s epic 2001 film ‘Lagaan’, recently opened up about his memorable experiences on set. Sharma, during an engaging conversation on the Friday Talkies YouTube channel, shared several interesting anecdotes about how the cast and crew forged strong bonds in Bhuj, the vibrant camaraderie, and the impactful role played by Aamir Khan, who remarkably lacked the usual starry airs typical of Bollywood celebrities.
Setting the stage for his revelations, Yashpal admitted that his initial perception of Aamir Khan was colored by his prior interactions with other stars. “I thought Aamir would be arrogant because that’s what my experiences with stars had taught me. Some NSD graduates would also think of themselves as stars… But Aamir is a wonderful human being, first and foremost,” Yashpal noted. This endorsement of Aamir’s humility set the tone for a series of heartfelt recollections.
Reflecting on the environment on the sets of ‘Lagaan’, Yashpal painted a vivid picture of Aamir Khan’s grounded nature. He fondly recalled how Aamir would nonchalantly sit in the dirt and relish his tea from a paper cup, thereby setting an example of simplicity and breaking down hierarchical barriers. One of the most interesting initiatives by Aamir was the creation of a card club. According to Yashpal, evenings would come alive as cast and crew members gathered to play cards. This seemingly simple activity had significant implications. “Maybe it was Aamir’s strategy to keep everybody away from women and booze, and from getting into random fights. Everybody was together on that set, and we maintained it for over five months. The passion, the late nights, the camaraderie all translated onto the screen,” Yashpal reminisced.
This atmosphere of unity and focus was integral to the success of the film. The actor added that the tradition of these gatherings has endured over the years.
. To this day, Aamir invites the ‘Lagaan’ crew for card parties every Diwali, reinforcing the bonds established during the grueling five-month shoot in Bhuj. “We would have gol gappas together, we went to watch a movie together, we played cricket together, we would rehearse together. But look at Aamir’s humility, he invites us to his house for card parties every Diwali,” he elaborated, highlighting the enduring mutual respect and camaraderie within the team.
The celebrated film ‘Lagaan’, directed by Ashutosh Gowariker and released in 2001, remains an iconic piece of Bollywood cinema. Set during the oppressive British colonial era in India, the film centers on a small village named Champaner, heavily burdened by exorbitant taxes imposed by the British authorities. The protagonist Bhuvan, played by Aamir Khan, emerges as a beacon of hope for the villagers. Bhuvan leads them in accepting a bold challenge proposed by the British officer Captain Andrew Russell—a high-stakes cricket match that offers a unique opportunity for tax relief.
The narrative of ‘Lagaan’ thrives on the journey of Bhuvan and his fellow villagers as they prepare for the cricket match, initially unfamiliar with the game and facing a formidable challenge. Their resilience and unity stand out as they undergo rigorous training and derive immense hope from their efforts. The movie deftly portrays the collective struggle against injustice and the power of unity and determination. It is not just a story about a cricket match but serves as a metaphor for the broader fight against colonial subjugation and social inequalities.
‘Lagaan’ has garnered critical acclaim and commercial success, celebrating the spirit of defiance and liberty. The film’s thematic depth, captivating performances, mesmerizing music, and stunning cinematography have earned it numerous awards in India and a place in the hearts of audiences worldwide.
As Yashpal Sharma’s anecdotes reveal, the spirited and collaborative atmosphere on the sets of ‘Lagaan’ was pivotal in translating the film’s intense emotions and collective ethos onto the screen. Aamir Khan’s humility and thoughtful leadership played a significant role in fostering these dynamics, ensuring that the entire team worked cohesively towards a singular vision. This sense of unity and determination continues to be celebrated, much like the timeless narrative of the film itself.
