Raj Kumar, one of Bollywood’s most revered stars, was known for his commanding voice, his intense screen presence, and a signature style that left audiences spellbound. Born as Kulbhushan Pandit in Baluchistan on October 8, 1926, he transitioned from being a sub-inspector to becoming a celebrated Bollywood icon. Known for his straightforward and outspoken nature, Raj Kumar wasn’t shy about giving advice—or even taunting—his fellow actors. But one day, he encountered someone who wouldn’t back down: Feroz Khan, a newcomer who would go on to become Bollywood’s first true style icon.
This fascinating clash of personalities happened on the set of the 1965 film Unche Log, which not only changed the dynamic between the two actors but left a lasting impression on Bollywood history.
Rising Star: Feroz Khan Makes His Mark
Feroz Khan began his acting career in 1956 with a minor role in Hum Sab Chor Hain. Over the next decade, he took on various roles in films like Bade Sarkar, Zamana, and Didi, steadily making a name for himself. It wasn’t until Unche Log that he achieved true recognition. This film, featuring Bollywood veterans Ashok Kumar and Raj Kumar, was a turning point in Khan’s career and earned him widespread praise for his screen presence and unique style.
During the production of Unche Log, Feroz Khan’s charisma quickly captured the attention of both the audience and the crew. Even in the presence of seasoned stars like Ashok Kumar and Raj Kumar, Khan’s talent and on-screen allure were undeniable. Raj Kumar, known for his larger-than-life personality, wasn’t particularly pleased by this and began to feel overshadowed.
The On-Set Tension: A Clash of Egos
The tension between Raj Kumar and Feroz Khan escalated during a key scene in Unche Log. According to crew members, Raj Kumar had to give a subtle cue to Khan by facing away from the camera. However, Raj Kumar, perhaps annoyed by the growing admiration for the newcomer, gave his cue while looking at the wall, throwing Feroz Khan off and causing the scene to be reshot.
Following this, Raj Kumar decided to offer unsolicited “acting tips” to Feroz Khan, attempting to assert his dominance on set. Initially, Khan chose to stay quiet, but as the comments became more frequent, he finally confronted the veteran. He bluntly told Raj Kumar, “You have your acting style, and I have mine. Let’s stick to what we each do best.”
This candid response from a relatively new actor left the set stunned. Not only had Feroz Khan defended his approach, but he had also done so with a confidence that few could match.
A Birthday Party Fallout
Their on-set tension reached a boiling point during Feroz Khan’s birthday celebration. While the crew was gathered to celebrate, Raj Kumar made another snide remark about Khan’s acting style. This time, however, Feroz Khan responded with unfiltered frustration. In a burst of anger, Khan dramatically removed his wig and tossed it aside.
The incident marked the beginning of an unspoken rivalry between the two actors. Although they remained in the same industry, they never shared screen space again. The friction between Raj Kumar and Feroz Khan became the stuff of Bollywood legend, a symbol of two powerful personalities clashing over artistic differences and pride.
A Lasting Legacy: The Style Icon Emerges
Despite—or perhaps because of—this memorable on-set conflict, Feroz Khan went on to become a celebrated star in his own right. His bold, flamboyant style and suave persona set him apart in an era when Bollywood was dominated by established names. He is remembered not only for his unique approach to acting but also as Bollywood’s first true fashion icon. His confidence and fearless attitude allowed him to hold his own, even against a powerful figure like Raj Kumar.
On the other hand, Raj Kumar’s reputation as a larger-than-life character remained intact. Known for his eloquent dialogue delivery and indomitable spirit, he continued to be a beloved figure in Bollywood. The incident with Feroz Khan became part of his storied legacy, an illustration of his intense passion and commitment to his craft.
The clash between Raj Kumar and Feroz Khan serves as a reminder of Bollywood’s golden era, when each actor brought something distinct to the screen. This encounter not only showcased the emerging new wave of talent but also underscored the importance of staying true to one’s style—no matter who stands in the way.
