Filmmaker and choreographer Farah Khan visited singer Shaan at his home. What started as a casual visit quickly turned into a heartwarming trip down memory lane. The two reflected on their early days in the film industry, long before Shaan became one of India’s most beloved playback singers and before Farah became Bollywood’s leading choreographer and director.
Their conversation sparked memories from the sets of _Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar_ (1992), the film that unknowingly became a turning point for both of them.
Farah Khan and Shaan Recall Their ‘Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar’ Days
While chatting, Farah said with a smile, “The first movie Shaan ever did was _Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar_.” Shaan laughed and responded, “Yes, I was there with a saxophone!” Farah then joked, “And I was a junior dancer.”
Shaan’s sons, who were listening, looked surprised. Farah continued, “I actually joined as an assistant director. Then, when they needed more dancers, I helped with choreography. Every time a dancer didn’t show up, they’d push me in front of the camera. There’s even a scene where Deepak Tijori kisses my cheek — the girl who was supposed to do it refused, so they sent me instead!”
She was never paid
Shaan mentioned that he worked on the film for four days but was visible in the final cut. “After shooting for four long days, I was just a passing shot in a medley of songs,” he recalled. Farah Khan laughed and said, “I think it was a Jatin song, I was choreographing it. The makers were so broke that they threw Jatin into the song too!”
The conversation became even more nostalgic when Shaan shared his pay for the gig. “I got ₹150 per day for four days, while the others received ₹75,” he said. Farah, clearly amused, gasped, “You got paid? I was never paid!” She then added warmly, “But honestly, what that film gave me was far more valuable than any cheque — it changed my life.”
Read also: Indian Government Migrates 1.2 Million Employee Emails to Zoho Platform