The 1988 film Tejab remains one of the biggest hits of its era, and Anil Kapoor has now shared a fascinating detail about how he insisted his way into one of the film's most famous songs. Madhuri Dixit played the lead role in the film, and her pairing with Anil Kapoor became one of the most loved on-screen jodis of that decade.
Tejab changed Madhuri Dixit's fortunes completely. The film was a massive box office earner at the time, and its songs became equally popular. Among them was 'Ek Do Teen', which turned into an instant super hit upon release and is still remembered and hummed by audiences today. The song made Madhuri Dixit an overnight star.
The Song Was Originally Meant For Madhuri Alone
Very few people know that Anil Kapoor had no role at all in 'Ek Do Teen' when it was first conceived. The song was planned to be picturised solely on Madhuri Dixit. But Anil Kapoor became convinced early on that the song was going to be a massive hit, and that conviction made him determined to be part of it.
He Told Laxmikant To Somehow Include Him
Anil Kapoor spoke to music director Laxmikant and insisted that he be worked into the song by any means necessary. He was firm that he would be part of the song no matter what. Driven by this insistence, he later got changes made not just to the song but to the film's script itself, so that his presence in the song would fit naturally.
The Story Came Out On The Kapil Sharma Show
Anil Kapoor narrated this entire episode on The Kapil Sharma Show. He explained that in its original form, the song featured only Madhuri Dixit and had no part written for him. His insistence on being included eventually led to the song becoming one of the most memorable numbers in film history.
Directed By N. Chandra, With A Strong Supporting Cast
Tejab was directed by N. Chandra. Alongside Anil Kapoor and Madhuri Dixit in lead roles, the film also featured Anupam Kher, Chunky Pandey, Kiran Kumar and Suresh Oberoi in significant roles, each leaving a mark with their performances.
The pairing of Anil Kapoor and Madhuri Dixit created a sensation among audiences. When Tejab released in theatres on November 11, 1988, cinema halls were packed to capacity. The film's story and its songs continue to stay fresh in people's memory even today.













