The 1985 action thriller Yudh brought together two rising forces of Bollywood, director Rajiv Rai and actor Anil Kapoor, delivering a blockbuster that fans still remember. But one question has lingered for decades: why did the duo never team up again? In a candid and no-holds-barred chat, Rajiv Rai has finally set the record straight.
According to Rajiv, the answer lies in the career dynamics of the mid-80s. “Wo Boney Kapoor tha na peeche uska career sawar raha tha, usko laga hoga Rajiv Rai jo hai usko banne do kuch, fir mai Anil Kapoor ko bhejunga” Rajiv revealed, hinting at the behind-the-scenes calculations that shaped casting decisions in that era.
Despite the gap in collaborations, Rajiv had nothing but praise for Anil Kapoor. “Anil is one of the most talented actors in the industry. Very hardworking. We had a lot of fun working on Yudh. I wanted to work with him again, but the role I had in mind was of an antagonist, so he refused. After that, the opportunity just didn’t come back.”
The filmmaker also shut down an old rumour that suggested a rift between the two. The gossip claimed Anil was upset because Jackie Shroff’s name appeared above his in the Yudh credits. Rajiv brushed it off with a laugh. “If Anil had a problem, he would have told me directly. I’m hearing this for the first time. Nothing like that ever happened.”
Rajiv described Anil as “dedicated, perceptive, and genuinely nice” a man fully committed to his craft. While fate and casting choices kept them from joining forces again, it’s clear there’s no bad blood, only mutual respect.
After nearly two decades away from the director’s chair, Rajiv Rai is all set to make a grand comeback to the silver screen. The filmmaker, who once ruled the ’80s and ’90s with cult hits like Tridev, Vishwatma, and Gupt, is returning with his new film Yodha. The project has already sparked curiosity among fans eager to see how Rai’s signature blend of action, drama, and style will translate to today’s cinematic landscape. His return marks a nostalgic yet fresh chapter for Bollywood audiences who grew up on his blockbuster storytelling.
