Mumbai, Sep 22 (NationPress) The iconic actress Waheeda Rehman recently recounted a fascinating story from the filming of the English adaptation of her renowned movie ‘Guide’.

In a recently circulated video by India’s state broadcaster Doordarshan, the actress narrates the peculiar request made by the director during the shoot, asking her to kiss the hood of a snake.

She recalled, “My favorite dance is the snake charmer's dance from ‘Guide’. While we were filming the English version, the director interrupted my dance to suggest, ‘You get so lost in the dance that you kiss the hood of the snake.’ I was taken aback and replied, ‘What are you talking about? How could I possibly do that?’ He insisted, ‘You are an Indian girl; why can't you do it?’ I retorted, ‘Being Indian doesn’t mean we play with snakes.’ He argued, ‘No, I have envisioned this shot. When it plays on the big screen, it will receive thunderous applause.’”

‘Guide’, directed by Vijay Anand, is inspired by R.K. Narayan’s novel. The film features Dev Anand as Raju, a tourist guide whose destiny changes dramatically after he encounters Rosie (played by Waheeda Rehman), who is trapped in a stifling marriage. This film is regarded as one of the most celebrated classics in Indian cinema.

Raju aids Rosie in chasing her dream of dancing, leading to a blossoming romance. However, ambition, betrayal, and ethical dilemmas soon unravel Raju’s life. The narrative evolves from romance into a deep exploration of spirituality and redemption, as Raju transforms from a disgraced guide into a venerated saint, grappling with themes of fate, free will, and faith.

The English version was directed by Tad Danielewski, a Polish-American filmmaker. The film is celebrated for its music by S.D. Burman, featuring timeless tracks like ‘Aaj Phir Jeene Ki Tamanna Hai’. Its storytelling, performances, and cinematic artistry have rendered it an enduring classic, merging commercial appeal with profound philosophical insights.