Recognized as a profoundly influential Bollywood luminary, late legend Yash Chopra ventured into film production with his movie "Daag" in 1973, marking the inception of the legendary Yash Raj Films. Renowned for his unique and impactful thematic preferences in cinema, Yash Chopra's acumen as a producer also earned continual acclaim. Conversely, an anecdote disclosed by his daughter-in-law and actress, Rani Mukerji, detailing Chopra's determined tactics of persuading her to join a project he was producing, involving the temporary confinement of her parents, has recently attracted considerable attention. ALSO READ: 25 Years Of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai: Karan Johar Sheds Light On His Cinema Journey, Reminisces About SRK, Rani Mukerji, Kajol Starrer
In an old interview with News18, Rani Mukerji recounted an incident that unfolded during Yash Raj Films' preparations for remaking Mani Ratnam's renowned Tamil film "Alai Payuthey" into Hindi as "Saathiya." Rani initially declined the offer to portray the lead role in the project. Reflecting on this period, she mentioned her reluctance to accept any offers following the setback of Kunal Kohli's "Mujhse Dosti Karoge," having remained without a project for eight months. Despite the hiatus and offers coming her way, Rani candidly admitted to declining everything, leading her mother to question her decision-making. ALSO READ: Rani Mukerji Recalls Her Father Had Heart Surgery During The Release Of Raja Ki Aayegi Baraat; Says, ‘Remember Him Weeping Like A Child’
Acknowledging the criticisms from film critics and publications that had written her off and speculated that her career had reached its end, Rani Mukerji expressed her acceptance of those opinions. She reflected, "I was fine with that. Perhaps they were right, but I refused to surrender. I aimed to pursue projects that resonated with my heart and beliefs." Speaking further about the incident, the Hichki actress shared "Fortunately, 'Saathiya' entered the picture, and I recall Yash uncle summoning my parents, Ram and Krishna Mukherjee, to his office. They visited to convey that 'Rani isn't keen on this film.' Yash uncle called me and firmly said, 'Dear, you're making a grave error. I'm locking my office door, and your parents won't leave until you agree to the film.' I'm grateful to him for that," she recounted.