Veteran actor Jackie Shroff recently opened up about a turning point early in his career that left a lasting impression. In a candid chat, Shroff recalled how legendary filmmaker and actor Dev Anand had initially promised him a prominent role in the 1982 film Swami Dada, only for him to be later replaced by Mithun Chakraborty. The incident, though disheartening, became a learning experience for the actor.
Jackie, who was still trying to find his footing in the film industry at the time, shared that he had been given the impression he would play a leading role in the movie. However, to his surprise and disappointment, his part was significantly trimmed down. What was once supposed to be a substantial character was reduced to a minor role where he ended up merely accompanying Shakti Kapoor’s character on screen.
“I was young, fresh, and very excited to work with Dev Anand saab. He was a legend and offered me a major role in Swami Dada,” Jackie recalled. “But things changed without much explanation. Mithun da was cast in the main role, and I ended up playing Shakti Kapoor’s chamcha (sidekick).”
The Hero actor admitted feeling hurt by the sudden change, but said he tried not to let the setback break his spirit. He maintained respect for Dev Anand and took the experience as a lesson in how unpredictable and volatile the film industry could be. “That’s the film line,” Jackie shrugged. “One day you’re in, the next day someone else takes your spot. But that’s how you grow tougher.”
Interestingly, this incident did not stop Jackie Shroff from eventually becoming one of Bollywood’s most popular stars of the 1980s and 1990s. Just a year after Swami Dada released, Jackie landed the lead in Subhash Ghai’s Hero (1983), which turned him into an overnight sensation and launched his successful career.
Looking back, Jackie reflects on the situation without bitterness. “Everything happens for a reason,” he said. “Maybe I wasn’t ready at that time, or maybe it was destiny’s way of showing me that I needed to work harder.”
His story stands as a testament to the resilience required in the film world, where even future stars have to endure early setbacks and disappointments.
