Seasoned actor Yashpal Sharma, best known for his role as Lakha in the 2001 Bollywood blockbuster ‘Lagaan’, recently shared some captivating moments from his time on the movie set. He revealed a range of anecdotes that highlight the unique camaraderie and logistical strategies that were at play during the filming, all the while shedding light on Aamir Khan’s down-to-earth nature.
Yashpal Sharma reminisced about how the entire cast and crew bonded while shooting in Bhuj, Gujarat, devoid of the usual distractions of women and alcohol. During an engaging conversation on the Friday Talkies YouTube channel, Yashpal set the scene by saying, “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.”
This revelation was somewhat surprising coming from a seasoned actor like Yashpal, who had previously worked with several prominent personalities in the industry. He described Aamir as an individual without the air of stardom that typically accompanies Bollywood actors of his stature. According to Yashpal, this humility contributed to the overall camaraderie on the set.
Drawing from his collection of memories, Sharma shared how Aamir Khan would often be seen sitting in the dirt, enjoying tea from a paper cup along with the other cast members. This approachability fostered a sense of equality and unity among the team. Aamir orchestrated what Yashpal calls “a cards club,” where the team would gather every evening, playing cards, sharing laughs, and steering clear of any potential distractions like alcohol and women. “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,” remarked Yashpal.
This sense of togetherness extended beyond the filming period. Aamir Khan’s humility shone brightly as Yashpal recounted how Aamir still hosts card parties for the ‘Lagaan’ crew every Diwali.
. “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 added. This tradition showcases the persistent bond shared by the team, illustrating how the connections forged during the film have stood the test of time.
In reflecting on ‘Lagaan’, it’s evident how integral these dynamics were to the film’s success. Directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, ‘Lagaan’ was released in 2001 and set during the British colonial era of late 19th-century India. The film’s story revolves around the small village of Champaner, burdened by unbearable taxes imposed by the British authorities.
The protagonist, Bhuvan, portrayed by Aamir Khan, becomes a symbol of resistance. The villagers, led by Bhuvan, are challenged by British officer Captain Andrew Russell to a high-stakes game of cricket—win, and the taxes are waived for three years; lose, and the tax burden triples. The story tracks Bhuvan and his fellow villagers as they prepare for this crucial match, overcoming various obstacles, and learning the game from scratch.
This narrative embodies themes of unity, resilience, and the fight against social injustice. As the villagers train rigorously, their journey becomes a powerful metaphor for the larger struggle against colonial oppression. The film’s depiction of the villagers’ spirit, combined with its potent cricket metaphor, struck a chord with audiences both in India and internationally.
A critical and commercial hit, ‘Lagaan’ garnered an array of awards and widespread recognition for its performances, direction, music, and cinematography. The film’s acclaim was not just limited to India; it also achieved international appreciation, underscoring the global relatability of its themes and storytelling.
Thus, Yashpal Sharma’s anecdotes and reflections not only highlight the uniqueness of the ‘Lagaan’ shooting experience but also illustrate the profound impact of Aamir Khan’s leadership and humility in creating a close-knit, collaborative environment that significantly contributed to the film’s monumental success. The actor’s stories remind us of the often unseen but crucial elements that go into making a cinematic masterpiece.
