Rajiv Rai, known for directing films like ‘Mohra’ and ‘Gupt’, recently discussed his friendship and subsequent fallout with Sanjay Dutt. Rai had initially cast Dutt in ‘Yudh’ and even shot some scenes, but he had to replace him due to Dutt’s health issues and need for rehab.
1. “He needed rehab, I was concerned”
Rajiv Rai revealed that Sanjay Dutt was initially cast in his directorial debut Yudh. However, after beginning the shoot with Dutt and Raj Kiran, Rai felt Sanjay needed help and did not continue with him.
“He needed rehab, I spoke to his father Sunil Dutt… if I had not taken that drastic step…” timesofindia.indiatimes.com
2. “I talked to his father, Sunil Dutt, before making the change”
Rai said he consulted Sanjay’s father, Sunil Dutt, before deciding to recast the film—moving forward instead with Anil Kapoor and Jackie Shroff. That decision, Rai explained, was essential given the circumstances. timesofindia.indiatimes.com
3. A Necessary Decision That Ended Our Friendship
While financial or professional timing might have been a simpler fix, Rai felt moral duty required a more significant move. Unfortunately, that step caused a permanent rift between two close friends.
🧭 Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Film | Yudh — initially starred Sanjay Dutt, later remade with Anil Kapoor |
| Rai’s Concern | Sanjay’s need for rehabilitation during shoot phases |
| Consultation | Rai discussed concerns with Sunil Dutt before recasting the movie |
| Personal Impact | Decision led to a friendship’s end — professional care over personal bonds |
💬 Context & Insight
Career at Stake: Yudh, launched by Rajiv Rai in the early 1990s, was a major debut following hits like Mohra and Gupt. Casting setbacks risked undermining the project’s potential.
Commitment to Responsibility: Rai’s statement highlights an unusual prioritization—ensuring Sanjay’s well-being rather than pressing ahead despite red flags.
Industry Reality Check: This candid disclosure sheds light on harsh decisions behind filmmaking, where personal relationships may take a backseat to creative and ethical responsibilities.
🧠 Final Thoughts
Rajiv Rai’s confession is an uncommon glimpse into a high-stakes moment in Bollywood—where a director valued artistic and moral responsibility over continuity, even at the cost of a friendship. His firm yet compassionate stance underscores the difficult balance between film-making pressure and human concern.
