Rare instances of unity rather than discord in Bollywood surfaced when actress Meenakshi Seshadri faced expulsion from her National Award-winning film Damini.
Allegedly, a marriage proposal from director Rajkumar Santoshi triggered this drastic decision. However, what ensued was beyond expectations. In one interview, Meenakshi recounted how the entire Bollywood fraternity rallied behind her, highlighting the importance of workplace regulations.
During the making of Damini in 1993, Rajkumar Santoshi, smitten with Meenakshi Seshadri, proposed to her in Kolkata. Her refusal left him heartbroken, confessing, “I was in love with Meenakshi, but she rejected me. I wanted to marry her.” Subsequently, Meenakshi was dropped from the film, but industry stalwarts supported her stance. Despite offers to replace her, leading actresses refused, citing ethical concerns, elevating Meenakshi’s esteem in her own eyes.
Yash Chopra and Amjad Khan reportedly intervened to ensure Damini’s completion. Meenakshi, emphasizing professional integrity, opted for silence, stating, “It is water under the bridge.” Eventually, she reclaimed her role and delivered a memorable performance in Damini, alongside Rishi Kapoor and Sunny Deol, earning critical acclaim and a National Award.
