'Hero' was an important film for me: Subhash Ghai

Filmmaker Subhash Ghai, who introduced Jackie Shroff in 1983 with "Hero", says it was an important film for him.

Ghai re-premiered the movie, starring Jackie and Meenakshi Seshadri, here on Sunday.

"My movie 'Hero' was an important film for me, which gave birth to a lot of stars and technicians. This movie also gave birth to me and (my banner) Mukta Arts," Ghai said.

On why he chose to screen the film again after 35 years, Ghai said: "The movie ran for 75 weeks on the big screen, but what made me happy was that it ran for 35 years on the small screen (television). My film has been running for 35 long years.

"I think the team behind the film was talented, spirited and honest. Whether it was Laxmikant-Pyarelal, Anand Bakshi, Jackie Shroff or Meenakshi Seshadri, it shows that a film can live up to 35 to 50 years.

"I wanted the young generation to witness old classics on the big screen. They watch it on the small screen, but I want them to have the big screen experience. That's why I have screened this movie here and started this mission to showcase one classic movie every week."

Ghai pointed out how Jackie was not just a newcomer at the time, but a non-actor too.

"He didn't know anything about acting at the time of 'Hero', but he was a great student. He learned acting and now he is a good actor. Now Jackie Shroff is a huge star and his son, Tiger Shroff is also a big star," Ghai said.

Jackie, who was present at the event, recounted some fond memories from the film's shoot.

"This song 'Nindiya se jagi bahar'... During its shoot, Meenakshi had 104 degree Celsius fever. She got a morning shot call at five and she had to do this cold waterfall scene. Her dedication and discipline were remarkable."

"I would like to credit Subhash Ghai for my career," Jackie added.