Mumbai, Sep 14 (NationPress) Legendary actor Jeetendra once shared an intriguing anecdote from his early days in the film industry, revealing that he was unexpectedly replaced by Shashi Kapoor in the movie “Abhinetri.”

During a nostalgic episode of the well-known talk show “Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai,” hosted by Farooq Shaikh and featuring Hema Malini, Jeetendra made a surprising confession. He remembered how, despite rearranging his schedule and demonstrating immense passion for the film, he was suddenly dropped, with the role winding up in the hands of Shashi Kapoor alongside Hema Malini.

The ‘Kucch To Hai’ star made a unique virtual appearance in this memorable episode of “Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai,” which celebrated Hema Malini’s illustrious career. The show included anecdotes from her family and friends about her disciplined routine and enduring love for dance. Heartfelt tributes from notable personalities like Jeetendra enhanced the episode's emotional depth, honoring the beloved ‘Dream Girl’ of Indian cinema.

At 83, Jeetendra recounted how filmmaker Subodh Mukherjee had initially eyed him for the role in “Abhinetri” opposite Hema Malini. He even went to the extent of adjusting his conflicting dates for the project. However, after several days without updates, he was taken aback to see in a newspaper that Shashi Kapoor and Hema Malini had been cast instead.

Jeetendra expressed his deep disappointment at being sidelined from the film without any prior notice, despite his enthusiasm and efforts. He stated, “I approached Subodh Mukherjee to inform him of the date adjustments I made, which were conflicting, to support the shoot. Yet after four or five days of silence, I was stunned when I read in a newspaper that Shashi Kapoor and Hema Malini were signed for ‘Abhinetri,’ produced and directed by Subodh Mukherjee. I still vividly remember that day’s shock. After all the dedication I had shown, I was let go without any communication. Eventually, I connected with Prasad ji, who then offered me ‘Jeene Ki Raah.’ That became my first experience working with Hema.”

Notably, Jeetendra and Hema Malini have appeared together in over 20 films, with their successful collaborations including “The Burning Train,” “Dulhan,” “Jai Kaali,” “Waris,” “Meri Aawaz Suno,” “Qaidi,” “Apne Apne,” “Jyoti,” and “Hum Tere Ashiq Hain.”