Aamir Khan didn’t ask about the story, script when he did Dev Anand’s film, recalls late star’s friend: ‘Didn’t even talk about money’

Recently, Dev Anand’s close friend Mohan Churiwala, in a conversation with Vickey Lalwani, revealed how Aamir came on board the film despite having no idea about the story. “Aamir Khan has said in an interview that Awwal Number is the only film where his father told him, ‘Don’t ask about the story, don’t ask about the script, don’t even talk about the money. Just go and say yes to Dev Saab.’ Dev Saab’s stature was such from the very beginning,” Mohan shared.

In the same conversation, Mohan spoke about Dev Anand’s professionalism and generosity, particularly when it came to payments. He shared: “His assistants used to tell me that Dev Saab was the best paymaster. Forget late payments, he would personally call people and make sure they were paid.” Mohan went on to narrate an anecdote involving the late comedian Birbal, who had worked in Dev Anand’s film Lootmaar, which failed at the box office. Despite the film’s poor performance, Dev Anand ensured that Birbal received his dues. “Birbal, the comedian, has written on his YouTube channel that he worked in Lootmaar and there were some payments he hadn’t taken because the film didn’t do well. Dev Saab called him and said, ‘Birbal, come immediately and collect your cheque.’”

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In the same chat, Mohan also recalled an incident involving legendary composer SD Burman, who was initially supposed to compose the music for Dev Anand’s Hare Rama Hare Krishna. According to Mohan, Burman was extremely close to Dev Anand, but after hearing the story, he strongly objected to it.

Recalling the episode, Mohan said: “When Burman Dada heard the story, he stood up and said, ‘Don’t make this film. This is a disgusting story. What is wrong with you to even plan such a story?’” Shaken by Burman’s reaction, Dev Anand realized he may have gone too far and decided to introduce an additional character to create a romantic subplot, ensuring there was no inappropriate angle involving the sister and his character. Despite this change, SD Burman remained unconvinced. “‘Don’t make this film. I don’t want to do it, and you shouldn’t either.’”

Nevertheless, Dev Anand remained firm in his conviction and went ahead with the film, with the music by RD Burman.