Ashutosh Gowariker recalls Amitabh Bachchan hesitating before joining Lagaan: 'Whenever I give a voiceover to a film, that film fails…'

Several elements of Lagaan have become unforgettable, such as Aamir Khan's Bhuvan saying 'Sharat Manzoor Hai,' Kachra's stunning hat-trick, the winning six, AR Rahman's music, and Amitabh Bachchan's voiceover that sets the tone of the film. However, many aren't aware that Bachchan was initially reluctant to lend his voice. In a recent behind-the-scenes video shared on Aamir Khan’s YouTube channel, director Ashutosh Gowariker revealed that getting Amitabh on board wasn’t an easy task.

Bachchan’s Superstition and Aamir’s Determination

Ashutosh shared that when they first approached Amitabh Bachchan for the voiceover, he mentioned a superstition he had about lending his voice to films, claiming that whenever he did, the film didn't do well. He warned Aamir about the potential risk, but Aamir, unfazed by the warning, chose to proceed. They then showed Amitabh the film, and once he saw it and understood the unique style of narration, he liked what he saw. After that, convincing him to join the project became much easier.

The Power of Amitabh Bachchan’s Narration

Ashutosh Gowariker remembered the first time he heard Amitabh Bachchan’s voice accompanying the opening scenes of Lagaan. He noted that Bachchan’s voice brought the storytelling to life, making it feel more authentic and engaging. The narration became a pivotal part of the film, adding a sense of depth and timelessness that contributed significantly to Lagaan's lasting impact.

Javed Akhtar's Warning Against Lagaan

Aamir Khan had previously shared how even lyricist Javed Akhtar had warned him against making Lagaan. In an interview with India Today, Aamir revealed that making Lagaan was a daunting task. His concerns grew when Javed called him up, questioning his decision to pursue the film. Javed pointed out several factors that could hinder its success, such as the fact that sports films and cricket-themed movies rarely worked, and the use of the Awadhi dialect might confuse audiences. He also mentioned the contrast between Lagaan's rural setting and the typical glamorous settings of films shot in places like Switzerland. Javed even referenced Amitabh Bachchan's involvement, noting that any film he had narrated in the past had failed.