When asked why he refrained from collaborating with Amitabh Bachchan, Danny Denzongpa once explained. The legendary actor admitted in a 2018 interview that he had believed that being in the “same frame” as Amitabh Bachchan would have prevented people from seeing him. He added that he turned down four films that director Manmohan Desai gave him, including Mard and Coolie.
Danny Denzongpa and Amitabh Bachchan in Khuda Gawah.
Agneepath was Danny and Amitabh’s debut film together (1990). He has since appeared in a number of movies, including Hum (1991), Khuda Gawah (1992), Kohram (1999), Ab Tumhare Hawale Watan Saathiyo (2004), and Ukhta (2022).
Danny had stated, “I was restraining myself from working with Amit ji,” in an interview with Filmfare. This is a big-name actor who gets fantastic roles, I assumed. Nobody would notice me if I were in the same frame as him. He would have received all the credit if the movie had been successful. But, the “new” man will take the fall if it fails. In addition, I consistently turned down Manji’s (late director Manmohan Desai) offers to work with Amitji on four films, including Mard and Coolie.
“Once I was in Film City where Manji was also filming,” he continued. He would get down on his knees and beg me, “Sir, please do a video for me,” in front of everyone. I responded, “Sochenge (I’ll consider it),” Manji should know that by going back 20 years in the industry (I’m referencing Desai’s excellent filmography). Ten individuals follow you after one superhit that you provide. Manji used to humiliate me most. Yet, because I am a straight man (I am a straight man), I always tell the unpleasant truth.
In 1972, Danny made his acting debut in Need. Over the years, he has appeared in a number of movies, including Dhundh, 36 Hours, Bandish, Dharmatma, Jiyo Aur Jeene Do, Dharma Aur Kanoon, Fakira, Chor Machaye Shor, Devta, and Kalicharan. Some examples include Bulandi, Adhikar, Jai Ho, Naam Shabana, and Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi.
Danny’s most recent appearance was in Sooraj Barjatya’s action drama Unchai. Amitabh Bachchan, Anupam Kher, Boman Irani, Parineeti Chopra, Neena Gupta, and Sarika are also featured in the movie.