Dharmendra made Hrishikesh replace Asha Parekh with Sharmila

Did you know Dharmendra made Hrishikesh Mukherjee replace Asha Parekh with Sharmila Tagore in 'Chupke Chupke'?/ India Times- The Times of India / Jul 27, 2023

Dharmendra and Sharmila Tagore starrer 'Chupke Chupke', was released in 1975

However, did you know Sharmila Tagore was not the first choice for the lead role? Yes. When Hrishikesh Mukherjee was thinking about making this film, he had actress Asha Parekh in his mind. He had also promised the actress that whenever he would make a film, he would keep her in the lead role. Although this could not happen allegedly due to Dharmendra's preference for Sharmila Tagore.

According to reports, during the film's production, the 'He-man of Bollywood' enjoyed immense popularity and was considered a superstar. Due to this, despite the strict directorial style, Hrishikesh Mukherjee agreed to Dharmendra's preference and signed the 'Aradhana' actress. As a result, Sharmila Tagore replaced Asha Parekh as the leading lady, and Dharmendra and Sharmila shared the screen.

This incident left Asha Parekh so disappointed that she never forgave the director for not standing by his promise. }