Sanam Bewafa

A good & decent movie.. 3rd consecutive successful film by SK

Sher Khan (Danny Denzongpa) and Fateh Khan (Pran) are sworn enemies, as were their fathers before them. Their children Salman (Salman Khan) and Ruksar (Chandni) meet and fall in love. Just when it seems that they have overcome their fathers' enmity, the situation worsens and it seems there will be no happy ending for the young couple.

Sanam Bewafa has a predictable Romeo and Juliet type plot, but is entertaining nonetheless. The music and choreography (dance and fighting) are average, but the costumes are stunning. Chandni plays her role naturally, but Khan, Denzongpa, and Pran tended to overact in serious moments. Bollywood fans will find it enjoyable, but not outstanding.

Sanam Bewafa review:

One of the biggest hits of Salman Khan's career; Sanam Bewafa was another version of Romeo and Juliet indianized for the masses by Saawan Kumar Tak. It was the debut of actresses Chandni and Kanchan who sadly couldn't capitalise on the film's surprise success at the box office. Both got relegated to side roles soon after..

Salman and Chandni played the two lovers torn apart by their warring tribes led by Pran (ending every line with 'Saai') and Danny. Punit Issar and Pankaj Dheer from Mahabharat TV series, were pitted against each other for action. Salman had a chocolate hero image in those days and his role was restricted to songs and romance only. Actually, he didn't have much hopes on this film and allowed Nitin Manmohan's Baaghi (1990) to be his next release after the blockbuster Maine Pyar Kiya (1989). But Sanam Bewafa belied all expectations and ran riot at the ticket windows.

Newcomer Chandni was not the original choice and Rukhsar was almost finalised for the lead role but things didn't work out at the last minute. Nevertheless, Saawan Kumar retained the name Rukhsar for his heroine in the movie. Newbie Mahesh Kishor gave some wonderful music and the songs are still popular in the Northen states where the movie attained blockbuster status.

Sanam Bewafa is Saawan Kumar Tak's biggest hit ever. It was bigger success than his Souten (1983) also. Unfortunately, it was also his last hit and the director went downhill after this. It is also one of Salman's biggest hit till date. In case, you are a true Bhai fan you must have already seen this film. If not, don't call yourself one!!

Regards, Sumeet Nadkarni.