
Raaj said ‘Nana beats people, why did you sign him?’: Tirangaa maker
The film industry is known for its intricate web of relationships, collaborations, and controversies. Sometimes, these stories can be quite shocking, and the recent revelation by the director of the 1993 film Tirangaa, Mehul Kumar, is a perfect example. In a recent interview, Kumar shared an astonishing anecdote about Raaj Kumar’s reaction to Nana Patekar’s casting in the film. According to Kumar, Raaj Kumar was quite upset and even told him that Nana Patekar “beats people up” and “abuses” them on set.
The incident allegedly took place when Mehul Kumar was finalizing the casting for Tirangaa. At that time, Nana Patekar was already an established actor, known for his powerful performances in films like “Angaar” and “Ram Lakhan”. However, it seems that his reputation on set was not as stellar. When Kumar shared the news with Raaj Kumar, the veteran actor was taken aback. “He said, ‘Nana abuses on set, beats people up, why did you sign him?’,” Kumar recalled in an interview.
It’s worth noting that Nana Patekar was known for his intense preparation and commitment to his roles. However, it seems that his method acting often bordered on aggression and abuse. According to Kumar, Nana Patekar had even put forth a condition before joining the sets of Tirangaa. If Raaj Kumar interfered with his scenes or tried to guide him, Nana would leave the set and not return.
This revelation is quite shocking, especially considering the era in which it took place. In the 1990s, the film industry was already plagued by rumors of on-set bullying and harassment. The fact that a prominent actor like Nana Patekar was known for his abusive behavior is a testament to the power dynamics at play in the industry.
It’s also interesting to note that Raaj Kumar, who was known for his calm and composed demeanor, was clearly uncomfortable with Nana Patekar’s behavior. Kumar’s account suggests that Raaj Kumar was not only concerned about the working environment but also the impact it could have on the crew and other actors.
The incident also raises questions about the kind of accountability that exists in the film industry. While there have been several cases of on-set bullying and harassment in recent years, it’s clear that the industry has a long way to go in terms of creating a safe and respectful working environment.
In recent years, there have been several high-profile cases of on-set bullying and harassment, including the #MeToo movement. The movement has led to a greater awareness of the issue and has prompted many in the industry to speak out against bullying and harassment.
However, it’s clear that there is still much work to be done. The incident involving Raaj Kumar and Nana Patekar is a stark reminder of the kind of behavior that was tolerated in the past and the need for greater accountability in the industry.
In conclusion, the story of Raaj Kumar’s reaction to Nana Patekar’s casting in Tirangaa is a fascinating and disturbing look into the darker side of the film industry. It’s a reminder of the power dynamics at play and the need for greater accountability and respect in the workplace. As the industry continues to evolve and grow, it’s essential that we prioritize creating a safe and respectful environment for all.