Mumbai’s film circles buzzed with doubt when BR Chopra greenlit ‘Naya Daur’ in the 1950s. The man behind classics like ‘Waqt’ and ‘Baghban’ had a script that even Mehboob Khan, the maestro of ‘Aan’ and ‘Amar’, advised against. On BR Chopra’s jayanti tomorrow, this anecdote highlights his unshakeable resolve.
Chopra’s legacy extends beyond hits; he was a storyteller who tackled real issues. ‘Naya Daur’ explored the clash between old-world charm and industrial advancement through a humble tangewala’s eyes. Writer FA Mirza pitched it to Chopra after rejections from others.
Directors scoffed: too preachy, too mundane. Mehboob Khan was blunt – a story about a horse-cart driver wouldn’t sell. But Chopra envisioned grandeur: location shoots in rural heartlands to mirror India’s transformation.
Mehboob’s visit to Chopra’s residence was dramatic. ‘Abandon it,’ he urged, predicting disaster. Chopra persisted, assembling a dream cast and crew. The result? A smash hit that packed theaters, sparking debates on progress and humanity.
Silver jubilee celebrations saw Mehboob Khan step up as chief guest. With humility, he confessed, ‘I was wrong; your determination won.’ The film’s enduring appeal, from its chartbuster songs to poignant drama, cements its status.
BR Chopra’s journey with ‘Naya Daur’ teaches aspiring filmmakers the power of instinct over consensus. In an industry of trends, his bold choice endures as inspiration.
