Mansoor Ali Khan Reflects on the Challenges of Creating Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar

Behind the Scenes of JJWS

Creating Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar (JJWS) was a significant challenge for Mansoor Ali Khan. He reflects, 'If a book were ever written about the behind-the-scenes experiences of my films, JJWS would be the one.' He describes the film as one shaped by fate, noting how cast changes occurred organically. Although he had previously met Ayesha Jhulka and Deepak Tijori, he ultimately chose Milind Soman for his impressive physique and discovered Pooja Bedi while at the beach.

Interestingly, Pooja was not his initial choice; that honor belonged to Nagma, who left the project just four days before filming began. Mansoor recalls, 'I had made it clear from the start that she was not the lead. While I don't want to blame her, it would have been courteous to inform me of her decision, especially with a forty-day outdoor schedule planned. Later, she admitted it was a huge mistake.' He reminisces about a dinner hosted by Farah Khan for the actors who were let go, where he reconnected with Milind Soman.

Casting Challenges and Career Reflections

Mamik, who portrayed Aamir Khan's elder brother, is remembered fondly by Mansoor. 'Mamik was always a bit of a free spirit. He was a great guy, but finding someone who could match Aamir's star power was tough. I needed an actor who could convincingly play Aamir's charming and dependable brother. Mamik was handsome, but his laid-back attitude may have hindered his career after JJWS. I can relate to that, as I too have a laid-back nature, but as the director, I had to take my responsibilities seriously.'

Mansoor emphasizes that JJWS was the only film he truly wanted to create. 'I believe it has endured over time. Just recently, two children visiting my farmstay were discussing it. Many assume I was inspired by Breaking Away, but that's not accurate. Since 1981, I envisioned a story about a loser who eventually finds his way, reflecting my own journey after returning from college in the US, feeling angry and defensive. JJWS emerged from that anger, but it's crucial to note that the two films are quite different.'

The Iconic Song and Documentary Plans

The song 'Pehla Nasha' remains a cherished memory for many. Mansoor shares, 'A friend suggested Jatin-Lalit for the music. Initially, I hesitated to move away from Anand-Milind, as it's easy to stay in a comfort zone. However, after working with Jatin-Lalit, I realized they were the right fit for JJWS. In QSQT, it was 'Papa Kehte Hain' that my father believed would be a hit, and similarly, 'Pehla Nasha' became the standout track in JJWS.'

Shakun Batra had plans to create a documentary about the making of JJWS. Mansoor reveals, 'He was eager to document the process, but I am too shy to pursue such projects. He eventually got busy with other commitments. One day, I hope to share all the stories from JJWS. I experienced a nervous breakdown during production, often crying at night. As the director, I felt overwhelmed and had to force myself to the set each morning, but ultimately, everything fell into place.'