MUMBAI: Celebrated choreographer-turned-filmmaker Ahmed Khan recently shared an astonishing anecdote about his financial windfall when he landed his debut independent project, the iconic 1995 musical Rangeela.
Then, a nineteen-year-old assistant, Ahmed, revealed that he was paid a massive sum that was unheard of for a newcomer in the film industry at the time.
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Ahmed was working as an assistant to the legendary dance director Saroj Khan, earning approximately Rs 500 per day for his efforts.
When Rangeela—a project initially meant for his mentor—came his way, he was unsure of his price, internally hoping for a respectable Rs 5,000 per song.
However, when director Ram Gopal Varma (RGV) finally handed him the payment, Khan was left speechless.
He had received Rs 25,000 per song, totalling approximately Rs 1.5 lakh for the entire film's choreography.
Recalling the surreal moment, Khan described his shock: "I asked Ram Gopal Varma, 'Did you not give this by mistake? This is Saroj ji's fees.'
He replied, “Are you mad? It's yours.”
RGV further explained his logic behind the unprecedented fee, emphasising the importance of the professional designation over the individual’s experience: "Wouldn't I have paid the same amount to Saroj Khan? For me, the person has changed, but the designation is the same. In fact, you have worked harder!"
This generosity and faith from the director were life-changing for the young artist.
The salary, which he referred to as a "bumper bonus", was enough for him to immediately purchase a white Tata Sierra car.
Ahmed noted that the opportunity was a perfect convergence of factors: an instant breakthrough, a successful film, great music by A. R. Rahman, and an excellent paycheck.
Ahmed credits RGV not just for the money, but for the profound creative freedom he was given.
RGV encouraged him to reject conventional dance patterns, telling him, "Please do something which a young boy would do.
No need to follow a pattern." This direction allowed Khan to introduce a fresh, youthful style to the cinema, which resonated deeply with audiences and cemented his place as an A-list choreographer.
Rangeela not only launched his career but also secured him his first Filmfare Award, confirming that the high-stakes risk taken by RGV had paid off spectacularly.
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CREDIT: NEWS 18
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