Bollywood in the 1980s was less prepared with professionals who would ensure the comfort of actors during intimate scenes. This resulted in a number of uncomfortable events on sets, exposing actresses to unsafe conditions. One of the most shocking and controversial incidents happened while shooting for Dayavan (1988), where experienced actor Vinod Khanna lost control during a romantic scene with actress Madhuri Dixit. The incident was of a kiss that exceeded expectations, leaving Madhuri upset and physically injured.
The Dayavan Kissing Incident
Dayavan was Madhuri’s second movie, in which she acted as Vinod Khanna’s wife. The chemistry on screen between the two was passionate, especially while shooting for the hit song “Aaj Phir Tum Pe Pyaar Aaya Hai.” Vinod Khanna, who was 42 years old then, did not stop kissing Madhuri in the scene and bit her lips, causing her to bleed. The young actress, frightened by the experience, was unable to stop crying afterwards. The incident created an uproar on the set, and both director Feroz Khan and Vinod Khanna subsequently apologized to Madhuri. It is said that the filmmakers even compensated her heavily for shooting the kissing scene.
The Controversy and Aftermath
The kiss scene was the subject of intense controversy after the release of the film. It is said that a notice was sent to Feroz Khan to delete the scene, but he did not do so. Madhuri also asked the scene to be deleted, and it is said that she was given Rs 1 crore as compensation for the trouble. Post Dayavan, Madhuri and Vinod Khanna never collaborated on a project again.
While Vinod Khanna’s career went downhill in the early 90s, Madhuri became one of the most legendary actresses of the 90s. She acted in blockbuster movies such as Tezaab, Dil, Beta, and Hum Aapke Hain Koun and emerged as the highest-paid actress of her era. After a break in 2001 after her marriage, Madhuri returned to films years later with a bang.
