In 1997, while shooting Subhash Ghai’s Pardes, Shah Rukh Khan encountered an unexpected personal challenge that tested his commitment and professionalism. At the time, his wife, Gauri Khan, was facing complications during her pregnancy. This situation required Shah Rukh to urgently travel to Delhi to be by her side. Despite the emotional strain, the actor ensured he fulfilled a crucial filming commitment before leaving.
Completing Yeh Dil Deewana in Record Time
Director Subhash Ghai revealed in an interview with Bollywood Hungama that the celebrated track Yeh Dil Deewana was among the final portions scheduled for filming. With only two days remaining before the wrap, Shah Rukh had been fully cooperative throughout the production. However, as the song shoot approached, he informed Ghai of his need to leave immediately for Delhi due to Gauri’s health concerns.
“We kept this song for the last. We had two days left. Shah Rukh Khan was cooperative throughout the movie, but towards the end, he had to leave two days before because I think Gauri was probably pregnant. He said that he needs to go to Delhi and cannot extend for another 2-3 days," Ghai said.
According to Ghai, the first day of the song shoot took place in Los Angeles. Knowing that Shah Rukh had to depart the next day, the director requested the actor’s presence early in the morning. At 7 a.m., Shah Rukh arrived on set, where a car was already prepared for the sequence. In an extraordinary display of focus, he completed all required close-up shots within just two hours.
Creative Solutions to Finish the Shoot
With Shah Rukh’s departure unavoidable, Ghai and his team devised a practical solution to ensure the song’s completion without compromising continuity. All remaining long shots, including the driving sequences filmed across different scenic locations, were executed using a body double. This approach allowed the crew to meet the tight schedule without delaying production.
The quick and efficient filming of Yeh Dil Deewana not only showcased Shah Rukh’s dedication under personal stress but also became a memorable behind-the-scenes moment in Bollywood lore.
Success of Pardes and the Song’s Legacy
Released in August 1997, Pardes struck a chord with audiences for its emotional storytelling, captivating music, and striking cinematography. Just a few months later, in November 1997, Shah Rukh and Gauri welcomed their first child, Aryan Khan. The song Yeh Dil Deewana, sung by Sonu Nigam, went on to become an instant chartbuster, marking the beginning of a long and successful collaboration between the singer and the actor.
The Film’s Theme and Impact
Pardes, directed by Subhash Ghai, delved into the clash between deeply rooted Indian traditions and the allure of Western values. The narrative centered around Arjun, played by Shah Rukh Khan, who travels to India from abroad to safeguard the interests of a wealthy non-resident Indian family. Along the way, Arjun forms a bond with Ganga, a simple village girl, leading to an emotional journey that tests his integrity, loyalty, and love. The film remains memorable for its heartfelt performances, soulful soundtrack, and exploration of cultural identity.
Shah Rukh and Gauri’s Family Life
Today, Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan are parents to three children. Their eldest, Aryan, was born in 1997, followed by daughter Suhana in 2000, and their youngest son, AbRam, in 2013. This particular incident from Pardes’s filming remains a testament to Shah Rukh’s ability to balance personal responsibilities with his professional commitments, even in moments of crisis.
Completing Yeh Dil Deewana in Record Time
Director Subhash Ghai revealed in an interview with Bollywood Hungama that the celebrated track Yeh Dil Deewana was among the final portions scheduled for filming. With only two days remaining before the wrap, Shah Rukh had been fully cooperative throughout the production. However, as the song shoot approached, he informed Ghai of his need to leave immediately for Delhi due to Gauri’s health concerns.“We kept this song for the last. We had two days left. Shah Rukh Khan was cooperative throughout the movie, but towards the end, he had to leave two days before because I think Gauri was probably pregnant. He said that he needs to go to Delhi and cannot extend for another 2-3 days," Ghai said.
According to Ghai, the first day of the song shoot took place in Los Angeles. Knowing that Shah Rukh had to depart the next day, the director requested the actor’s presence early in the morning. At 7 a.m., Shah Rukh arrived on set, where a car was already prepared for the sequence. In an extraordinary display of focus, he completed all required close-up shots within just two hours.
Creative Solutions to Finish the Shoot
With Shah Rukh’s departure unavoidable, Ghai and his team devised a practical solution to ensure the song’s completion without compromising continuity. All remaining long shots, including the driving sequences filmed across different scenic locations, were executed using a body double. This approach allowed the crew to meet the tight schedule without delaying production.The quick and efficient filming of Yeh Dil Deewana not only showcased Shah Rukh’s dedication under personal stress but also became a memorable behind-the-scenes moment in Bollywood lore.
