Qurbani

1980 · India · 157 min

Director: Feroz Khan
Producer: Feroz Khan
Music: Kalyanji–Anandji
Cinematography: Kamal Bose

Cast

Amjad Khan

Zeenat Aman

Bob Christo

Vinod Khanna

What it is about

Rajesh, a former motorcycle stuntman from a circus, now makes a living as a thief skilled at breaking open safes. In love with Sheela, a nightclub singer, he hides his trade from her until a traffic accident exposes him to inspector Amjad Khan, who arrests him and brings him to trial. After his release, Rajesh is dragged back into the affairs of Vikram, who wants revenge on crime boss Rakka, while Amar, a widowed criminal, tries to break away from Rakka's gang.

How it was made

Feroz Khan produced, directed, co-wrote and starred in the film, which began shooting in 1979 and was among the most expensive Indian productions of its time. To create shock, the production staged the destruction of a Mercedes-Benz in an underground car park, at a time when few Indians had seen one. The role of Amar was first offered to Amitabh Bachchan, who could not wait, and it went to Vinod Khanna. The music was composed by Kalyanji-Anandji, with Biddu contributing the song Aap Jaisa Koi.

Reception and legacy

The film opened in June 1980, its release delayed by a week after the death of Sanjay Gandhi, and became the year's biggest box office hit in India. It won two Filmfare Awards. It is said to have been inspired by the 1972 Italian-West German film The Master Touch, and its qawwali Qurbani Qurbani remains closely associated with it.

Stills

Trivia

A destroyed Mercedes

One shock scene shows a Mercedes-Benz being destroyed in an underground car park, at a time when very few Indians had ever ridden in one.

From Amitabh Bachchan to Vinod Khanna

Feroz Khan first wanted Amitabh Bachchan for the role of Amar, but Bachchan said he would not be free for six months, so the part went to Vinod Khanna.

A postponed release

The planned release date of 27 June 1980 was pushed back a week after the death of Sanjay Gandhi on 23 June, and the film opened on 30 June.

More films by Feroz Khan

Original Cinematopedia text based on Wikipedia (en) and Wikidata.