How Andaz Apna Apna Was Made Without a Script and Became a Classic

The 1994 Hindi film Andaz Apna Apna, known for its iconic characters and memorable lines, was created without a bound script. Despite production hurdles and cast conflicts, the film has since gained cult status and is now being revived for a cinematic franchise, according to the producer's family.

Directed by Rajkumar Santoshi and produced by the late Vinay Sinha, the film featured Aamir Khan and Salman Khan in lead roles alongside Karisma Kapoor, Raveena Tandon, Paresh Rawal, and Shakti Kapoor. It was initially conceptualized in 1990 after Sinha launched his production company and secured Salman Khan with the help of Salim Khan. Aamir Khan joined the project shortly thereafter.

Rajkumar Santoshi, then known for Ghayal, was approached to direct a comedy instead of his planned action film. The story drew inspiration from Archie comics, with the script evolving on set rather than being fully written in advance. Key dialogues and scenes were improvised during filming.

Shooting delays began early. Aamir and Salman reportedly had strained off-screen relations, as did co-stars Karisma Kapoor and Raveena Tandon. Scheduling issues further prolonged production, with continuity errors visible in Salman Khan's changing hairstyles due to extended filming from 1991 to 1994.

Despite creative chaos, several iconic sequences emerged spontaneously, including the final climax and the now-famous face-off between Prem and Crime Master Gogo. Paresh Rawal played dual roles as Teja and Ram Gopal Bajaj. Notably, Shakti Kapoor, who became synonymous with Crime Master Gogo, was not the original choice.

Music by Tushar Bhatia paid tribute to composer O.P. Nayyar, with tracks designed to evoke a retro feel. However, financial constraints and shifting schedules delayed completion. Santoshi prioritized other projects like Damini, contributing to the film's staggered progress.

The film released on November 4, 1994, with limited publicity due to actors' unavailability and a constrained marketing budget. Despite underwhelming box office performance initially, the film later gained popularity through cable television and internet virality.

Amod Sinha, Vinay Sinha's son, credits Salman Khan with reviving the stalled project. "He stood by the film when many didn't," said Amod. "Without Salman, the film might never have been completed."

Contrary to popular belief, the producers maintain the film was not a financial failure. It was declared tax-free in Maharashtra, and the Sinha family claims it eventually turned a profit.

Today, Andaz Apna Apna is regarded as a cultural staple. Its catchphrases remain embedded in popular vernacular, and even background actors gained attention decades later.

Producer Vinay Sinha's children, who currently hold the rights to the film, have announced plans for a sequel and expansion into a full-fledged franchise.

"We will make a formal announcement about Andaz Apna Apna 2 soon," confirmed Priti Sinha.

The film returns to theatres this week, celebraHow Andaz Apna Apna Was Made Without a Script and Became a Classicting over 30 years since its chaotic yet legendary production began.