An interesting behind-the-scenes incident from the sets of Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam has resurfaced after veteran actress Smita Jayakar shared her memories of working on the 1999 romantic drama. In a recent interview with Siddharth Kannan, Jayakar revealed that filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali once reprimanded Salman Khan for making an unscripted gesture towards Aishwarya Rai Bachchan while filming a romantic scene.
Jayakar played Amrita Darbar, the mother of Aishwarya’s character, Nandini, in the film. According to the actress, the incident offered a glimpse into the growing romance between the film’s lead actors, which also contributed to their on-screen chemistry.
Why Sanjay Leela Bhansali Scolded Salman Khan
Recalling the incident, Jayakar said it took place during the filming of the popular song Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan. Salman, who portrayed Sameer, was supposed to walk around a table and look at Aishwarya’s character, Nandini.
However, Salman unexpectedly touched Aishwarya’s arm, even though the gesture was not part of the planned scene.
Bhansali immediately noticed the deviation and questioned the actor about his action. Jayakar recalled that the director shouted at Salman and asked why he had touched Aishwarya when he was only supposed to stand and look at her.
The actress suggested that Salman acted spontaneously because he was in love. His unexpected gesture reportedly amused the crew, while Aishwarya blushed, making their growing affection apparent to those present on the set.
Smita Jayakar Recalls Salman and Aishwarya’s On-Set Chemistry
Jayakar also spoke about the strong chemistry between Salman and Aishwarya during the film’s production. According to her, their romance was blossoming at the time, and their feelings for each other added to the emotional appeal of their performances.
“They were both in love, and they looked angelic. Aishwarya looked divine at that time. Somehow, it worked for the film. That magic came through on screen,” Jayakar recalled.
The actress also shared a lighter detail about the filming schedule. She said the crew would sometimes complain about the lead actors arriving late, with the two reportedly turning up together around 11 AM while the team waited for them.
Despite these occasional delays, Jayakar believed their real-life connection helped bring authenticity to the romantic moments portrayed in the film.
Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam: A Bollywood Classic
Released on June 18, 1999, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam was directed, co-written and produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. The film featured Salman Khan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Ajay Devgn in the lead roles.
Made on a reported budget of ₹16 crore, the romantic drama earned ₹51.38 crore at the box office, becoming the second-highest-grossing Indian film of 1999.
The film also received widespread critical recognition, winning eight Filmfare Awards. Its honours included Best Film, Best Director for Bhansali and Best Actress for Aishwarya Rai.
With its memorable soundtrack, striking visuals and emotionally driven love triangle, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam continues to hold a special place in Bollywood cinema. Jayakar’s recollections provide another glimpse into the making of the film and the personal dynamics that accompanied one of its most memorable on-screen romances.