Mumbai, October 27, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Filmmaker and actor Sachin Pilgaonkar has revealed why he was determined to cast Madhuri Dixit in his directorial venture Prem Deewane, saying her performance in the film Abodh convinced him that she could take on a challenging role.
The revelation came during Madhuri’s interaction with Sachin Pilgaonkar and actress Madhurani Gokhale on the Marathi quiz show Kon Honar Crorepati, where the actress revisited her experience of working with the filmmaker.
During the conversation, Madhuri recalled that she was largely known for her dancing skills and romantic roles at the time. She asked Sachin what had prompted him to cast her as a police inspector in Prem Deewane, a departure from the roles audiences commonly associated with her.
Responding to her question, Sachin said he had been impressed by her acting in Abodh and believed she was capable of portraying the demanding character.
“I had seen your film ‘Abodh’ before that, and I absolutely loved your performance. I said, ‘No, I want Madhuri.’ When I was asked, ‘Why Madhuri for this role?’ I said, ‘If she can do that, she can pull this off too,’” he recalled.
Madhuri thanked Sachin for believing in her abilities and giving her the opportunity to explore a different kind of character.
Released in 1992, Prem Deewane was directed by Sachin Pilgaonkar and produced by Ashok Ghai. The film featured Jackie Shroff, Madhuri Dixit, Vivek Mushran and Pooja Bhatt in the lead roles.
Madhuri portrayed Inspector Shivangi Mehra, while Jackie Shroff played Ashutosh Singh. Vivek Mushran essayed Manohar, popularly known as Manu, and Pooja Bhatt played Radha. The supporting cast included Prem Chopra, Ashok Saraf, Reema Lagoo, Dara Singh, Manohar Singh and Ashalata.
The romantic comedy follows Radha and Manu, two young lovers who run away after facing opposition to their relationship. Their journey takes an unexpected turn when they become entangled in a kidnapping plan, triggering a series of misunderstandings and comic situations.
The film’s music was composed by the celebrated duo Laxmikant-Pyarelal, with lyrics penned by Anand Bakshi. Its soundtrack featured songs such as Aise Lagi Aag Barabar, Pi Pi Piya, Prem Deewane, Yeh Ho Raha Hai, Happy Birthday to You Mr. Pedro and Mohabbat Zindabad.
Sachin’s recollection highlights how Madhuri’s performance in Abodh helped convince him that she could move beyond her established screen image and take on a more unconventional role in Prem Deewane.
FOLLOW NOW
