Considering the hectic and volatile nature of the box office, it is common for filmmakers to insure their films these days. But do you know who started this trend in India? The one who started this trend was Subhash Ghai who had his 1999 film ‘Taal’ sold by United India Insurance for Rs. 11 crore was insured. Thus ‘Taal’ became the first Indian film to get insurance. The musical romantic drama film, starring Aishwarya Rai, Akshay Khanna and Anil Kapoor in the lead roles, received critical acclaim from audiences and critics alike for its musical romantic drama, story line, performances and soundtrack.
Made on a budget of Rs 11 crore, the film earned Rs 22 crore in India and Rs 55 crore worldwide. Taal became the fourth highest grossing film of 1999 after Hum Saath Saath Hai, Biwi No. 1 and Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. The film’s success catapulted the three lead actors Aishwarya Rai, Akshay and Anil to stardom in Bollywood.
Even before Taal’s release, its soundtrack became the best-selling album of the year. Composed by AR Rahman and penned by Anand Bakshi, these songs became instant classics and are remembered even today. These evergreen songs include Ishq Bina, Ramta Jogi, Mere Paas Hai Tu, Taal Se Taal and Nee Main Samaj. These songs gave Subhash Ghai the confidence to name his film Taal.
At the launch of its soundtrack, the filmmaker said, “I give the name of the film to AR Rahman. The film is a romantic film and I could have called it anything – Dil, Pyaar, Hum Bhaag Gaye but it was K.N. It was the presence that gave me the confidence to call it a success.”
In 2000, Anil Kapoor won Best Supporting Actor, AR Rahman won Best Music Director, Anand Bakshi won Best Lyricist for Ishq Bina, Alka Yagnik won Best Playback Singer for Tal Se Tal.
Bollywood news: Bollywood in trouble, 64 lazy days