It’s almost unbelievable, but it’s true. While ‘Deewaar’ went on to sweep awards for nearly everyone involved—Shashi Kapoor, Yash Chopra, Salim-Javed, even Nirupa Roy—the one person who didn’t walk away with a trophy was Amitabh Bachchan. Yes, the heart and soul of this landmark film was overlooked! Such are the ironies that often shape the history of cinema.
‘Deewaar’ wasn’t just a film; it was an explosive narrative that rewrote the rules of Hindi cinema. A gritty adaptation of Mehboob Khan’s ‘Mother India’ and Nitin Bose’s ‘Ganga Jumna,’ with echoes of Elia Kazan’s Hollywood classic ‘On the Waterfront,’ it set the stage for future masterpieces like Mukul Anand’s ‘Hum’ and Vikram Bhatt’s ‘Ghulam.’.
At its core, ‘Deewaar’ was the definitive Angry Young Man saga, encapsulating fury that simmered silently yet powerfully. Amitabh Bachchan’s Vijay was a ticking time bomb—fists clenched, nerves taut, his anger burning within. You couldn’t help but worry about his mental state and health. This was a hero unlike any other—wounded, intense, and unforgettable. In many ways, Vijay echoed the tortured genius of Guru Dutt’s character in ‘Pyaasa.’.
The film’s emotional depth was astounding. At its heart was Nirupa Roy, who, in a role inspired by Nargis in ‘Mother India,’ played the quintessential conflicted mother. Torn between her two sons—the virtuous Ravi (Shashi Kapoor) and the rebellious Vijay (Amitabh Bachchan)—her presence anchored the film’s morality. Who could forget the iconic moment when Ravi quietly declared, “Mere paas Maa hai,” in response to Vijay flaunting his ill-gotten wealth? That one line cemented its place in cinematic history.
Like many morality tales of its era, ‘Deewaar’ painted wealth and materialism as symbols of evil. But for once, audiences were less interested in the straight-laced, law-abiding hero Ravi. Their hearts—and minds—were captivated by Vijay, the flawed yet magnetic anti-hero. His rebellion, his rejection of societal norms, and his eventual emotional breakdown before Lord Shiva resonated with the frustration and anger of the Emergency era in India.
Interestingly, ‘Deewaar’ also broke stereotypes. Parveen Babi’s Anita, a bar dancer, was not your conventional “nice girl.” She smoked, drank, and had a premarital relationship with Vijay—something unheard of in Hindi films at the time. Anita’s bold character was a revelation, while Nirupa Roy’s performance, in a role initially meant for Vyjayanthimala, was nothing short of brilliant.
But let’s not kid ourselves—‘Deewaar’ was Amitabh Bachchan’s film through and through. His portrayal of Vijay was electrifying. Lonely, intense, and rebellious, his eyes carried the weight of his character’s pain and defiance. Rumors abound that Vijay was loosely based on the notorious smuggler Haji Mastan, adding another layer to his complex persona.
And yet, it’s fascinating to think that Vijay wasn’t originally meant for Bachchan. After the success of ‘Daag,’ the role was initially offered to Rajesh Khanna. But thanks to Salim-Javed’s insistence, Bachchan stepped in, and the rest is history. Shashi Kapoor’s role, too, was first offered to Navin Nischol, who declined to play second fiddle.
Yash Chopra’s direction was impeccable, ensuring every frame contributed to the film’s riveting narrative. His cinematographer, Kay Gee, brought the grimy, gritty world of godowns and dockyards alive with striking authenticity. If there was one weak spot, it was R.D. Burman’s music, which felt out of sync with the film’s tone. Thankfully, Vijay wasn’t saddled with any songs—a decision that perfectly suited his brooding, introverted character.
In many ways, Vijay from ‘Deewaar’ was an extension of the one Amitabh played in ‘Zanjeer.’. Both were men consumed by their inner turmoil, fighting battles against a flawed world while grappling with their own morality.
So, while Amitabh Bachchan may not have taken home an award for ‘Deewaar,’ he won something far greater—immortality. To this day, Vijay’s clenched fists, fiery gaze, and smoldering intensity continue to define the very essence of the Angry Young Man in Indian cinema.
