Zeenat Aman shares How 'Khaike Paan' transformed from rejection to Iconic hit

Zeenat Aman recently shared a charming story about the iconic Bollywood song "Khaike Paan Banaraswala" from the film Don, revealing that it was initially rejected before becoming a massive hit. In her Instagram post, Zeenat explained that the song was originally intended for Dev Anand's film Banarasi Babu, but was deemed "too frivolous" and not included in the final cut.

Director Chandra Barot, who had already completed filming Don, starring Amitabh Bachchan in a dual role, realized that the movie needed a lighter moment to balance its intense narrative. Consequently, the cast and crew returned to Mehboob Studio for an additional shoot to film the song, which ultimately became one of the most memorable tracks in Indian cinema.

Zeenat reminisced about the vibrant energy during the shoot, highlighting Kishore Kumar’s lively vocals and Amitabh Bachchan’s enthusiastic performance. She recalled, “I remember most acutely the quantity of paan that Mr. Bachchan consumed and the sheer energy he brought to set.” She also mentioned the physical challenges of filming alongside Bachchan, noting his height compared to her own 5 feet 8 inches and how she had to dance in high heels for the sequence.

"Khaike Paan Banaraswala" quickly became a national sensation, with reports indicating that audiences were returning to theaters repeatedly just to enjoy this one song. Its catchy lyrics and upbeat rhythm transformed it into a cultural anthem.

Zeenat also reflected on how the song was later recreated by Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra in the 2006 remake of Don, directed by Farhan Akhtar. She praised their rendition for capturing the same upbeat spirit that made the original so beloved.

In her post, Zeenat Aman expressed nostalgia for the song's enduring cultural significance, inviting her followers to celebrate its timeless appeal. With its iconic lines like "Khul jaaye band akal ka taala," she reminded fans of the song's lasting charm and its prominent place in Bollywood history.

Through her heartfelt reflections, Zeenat Aman not only shared behind-the-scenes memories but also celebrated the legacy of "Khaike Paan Banaraswala," a song that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its release.