Must Read: ‘THIS’ Film Was Bollywood’s First Ever Movie Shot ABROAD!
The resounding success of recent Bollywood blockbusters like ‘Gadar 2’, ‘Pathaan’, ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani’, and ‘Zara Hatke Zara Bachke’ has left exhibitors and distributors gleaming. As a tribute to Hindi cinema enthusiasts, BollywoodLife is embarking on a series that delves into the rich history of the Hindi film industry. From the inception of the first studio to the breakthrough moments of leading stars, the journey is nothing short of captivating. Today, we delve into the pioneering Bollywood movie that first ventured into foreign landscapes.
The Hindi film fraternity began embracing overseas locales in the 1960s, with the distinguished movie ‘Sangam’ leading the way. The visionary Raj Kapoor emerged as a trailblazer, transporting his cast to the breathtaking landscapes of Europe. "Sangam," a monumental Bollywood film, wove a narrative around the lives of three friends, interweaving romance and drama in a seamless blend of emotions. The film's melodious soundtrack further enriched its cinematic experience. The late Raj Kapoor took on the role of Sundar, Rajendra Kumar portrayed Gopal, and the captivating Vyjayanthimala embodied Radha. The movie's honeymoon sequence was set against the picturesque backdrop of Paris, Switzerland, and Venice. Some of the iconic landmarks showcased in the film include Switzerland's Grand Hotel Giessbach, Rome's Vittoriano, the Eiffel Tower, and Switzerland's Trummelbach Falls and Interlaken. Berghaus Bort, among others, also graced the screen.
‘Sangam’ stood as a pivotal success of its era, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. It marked Raj Kapoor's final triumph as an actor, while also becoming a cinematic journey that continues to capture the imagination. The picturesque town of Gstaad, frequented by Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan during their annual Christmas vacations, was also immortalized in the movie. Remarkably, the film featured two intervals, captivating the audience with its depiction of foreign splendors. ‘Sangam’ garnered numerous accolades, further solidifying its place in history.
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Tracing back to the 1940s, Hirendra Kumar Basu's creation ‘Afreeka Main Hind’ emerged as an early cinematic foray shot entirely on the continent. However, it deviated from the mainstream genre. ‘Sangam’, on the other hand, emerged as a true representative of a grand Bollywood romance, setting the precedent for future cinematic explorations.
