Vipul Shah’s iconic film “Aankhen” celebrates its 22nd anniversary today, and its legacy continues to captivate audiences. Starring a powerhouse ensemble cast including Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay Kumar, Arjun Rampal, Sushmita Sen, Paresh Rawal, and Aditya Pancholi, this cinematic gem hit the silver screen on April 2, 2002. Inspired by Shah’s Gujarati play “Andhalo Pato,” the film not only garnered rave reviews but also emerged as an instant box office success.
What Makes “Aankhen” Unforgettable?
1. Critical Acclaim and Audience Adoration
Upon its release, “Aankhen” received glowing reviews from critics. Its sharp storytelling and engaging narrative resonated with viewers, resulting in a massive opening at the ticket counters. The film’s blend of suspense, drama, and intrigue left an indelible mark on the audience.
2. Box Office Triumph
“Aankhen” didn’t just stop at critical acclaim—it dominated the box office. In 2002, it secured the fifth position among the highest-grossing films. Remarkably, even with a limited release, it set a record in South Africa, grossing $14,600 over the weekend.
3. Pioneering Heist Films
Long before heist movies became a popular genre, “Aankhen” was already breaking ground. The film revolves around Vijay Singh Rajput (played by Amitabh Bachchan), a dedicated bank employee who faces unjust dismissal. Determined to seek revenge, he assembles a team of three blind men to execute an audacious bank robbery. This unique premise set the stage for a gripping revenge drama.
4. Hollywood Buzz
In an intriguing twist, Hollywood legend Robert De Niro was rumoured to be interested in “Aankhen’s” script. Although a deal couldn’t be finalized, the mere consideration of this debut film by Hollywood was a huge compliment to director Vipul Shah.
5. Dual Endings
“Aankhen” holds another distinction: it experimented with two different endings. Director Vipul Shah shot one version with Bachchan’s character locked up and another with him on the loose. This creative decision added suspense and intrigue, leaving audiences guessing until the final moments.
Vipul Shah’s Ongoing Impact
Beyond “Aankhen,” Vipul Amrutlal Shah has consistently delivered remarkable films. His recent venture, “The Kerala Story” (co-produced by Aashin A. Shah), left an indelible impact and emerged as the ninth-highest-grossing Hindi film of 2023. As a producer, his latest release, “Bastar: The Naxal Story” (also co-produced by Aashin A. Shah), tackles powerful subject matter and continues to resonate with audiences.
As we celebrate 22 years of “Aankhen,” we raise a toast to its enduring legacy and the creative genius of Vipul Shah!
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