Sharmila Tagore made cinematic history in the 1960s with her bold and stylish choices, particularly during the shooting of An Evening in Paris. The film, directed by Shakti Samanta and starring Shammi Kapoor opposite Tagore, became famous for its music and glamour. Among its most talked-about moments was Tagore’s swimsuit scene, which sparked conversation at the time. In a recent interview, Samanta’s son, Ashim, revisited the iconic shoot, revealing behind-the-scenes anecdotes. He highlighted how Sharmila herself wanted to wear a bikini, confident in her figure and modern outlook.

Ashim Samanta recalled that it was his father who suggested a one-piece swimsuit instead of the bikini. He said Sharmila was “absolutely cool” about the decision, showing her confidence and professionalism. The actor, he noted, was a modern woman who knew she had a fabulous figure and could pull off such a daring look. The swimsuit scene became a defining moment in Tagore’s career and remains one of her most celebrated performances. It also symbolized a changing attitude toward female stars in Bollywood during the 1960s.

The interview also revisited Shammi Kapoor’s dramatic entry in the film, which involved a helicopter sequence. Ashim revealed that Shammi himself had suggested the idea but later admitted he had a fear of heights. The actor’s vertigo made him anxious, and he joked about the impracticality of arranging a helicopter in Beirut. Despite the fear, Shammi Kapoor’s commitment to the role ensured the sequence went ahead. Ashim recounted how Shammi’s determination and charm turned the risky stunt into a memorable cinematic moment.

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To overcome his fear, Shammi Kapoor reportedly had two pegs of brandy at a hotel bar before attempting the helicopter sequence. This amusing anecdote highlighted both his nervousness and his flair for dramatic entrances. Ashim emphasized that Shammi Kapoor never let fear dictate his performance, embodying the adventurous spirit that fans adored. The combination of Sharmila Tagore’s poise and Shammi Kapoor’s charisma made An Evening in Paris an unforgettable film. The shoot reflected the duo’s professionalism and willingness to push boundaries in Bollywood.

Earlier, Shakti Samanta himself praised Sharmila Tagore for her talent and determination on various talk shows. He recalled that she was stubborn but immensely talented, willing to fight for her creative choices. Regarding the swimsuit scene for Aasman Se Aaya Farishta, Samanta admitted that they compromised on the outfit to satisfy both the censor board and Sharmila’s wishes. The actress’s confidence and insistence made the scene iconic, setting trends in fashion and film presentation. Her performance continues to be remembered as one of the boldest and most stylish in Bollywood history.

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