The Ultimate Guide to Don (1978) and Its Iconic Bollywood Dialogues
Don (1978) | Bollywood Dialogues By Hindi Movies | Filmy Quotes
Don (1978) is a Bollywood crime action thriller film directed by Chandra Barot and starring Amitabh Bachchan in a dual role as Don and Vijay. The film also features Zeenat Aman as Roma, Pran as Jasjit (J.J.), Iftekhar as DSP D'Silva, Om Shivpuri as Vardan/Fake Interpol Officer R.K. Malik, Satyendra Kapoor as Inspector S. Verma, and Helen as Kamini.
Don (1978) | Bollywood Dialogues By Hindi Movies | Filmy Quotes
The film was written by SalimJaved, and produced by Nariman Irani, who also served as the cinematographer. The film features music by KalyanjiAnandji, with lyrics by Anjaan and Indeevar. The film was released on 12 May 1978 and became one of the highest-grossing films of that year. It was also critically acclaimed for its story, direction, performances, music, and dialogues.
Don (1978) is considered to be one of the most influential films in Indian cinema history, as it spawned several remakes, sequels, and parodies in various languages. It also established Amitabh Bachchan as one of the most popular actors in India, him the necessary information and support. He is killed by Vardan's men before he can reveal the truth to anyone.
Vardan/Fake Interpol Officer R.K. Malik: The antagonist of the film, played by Om Shivpuri. Vardan is the mastermind behind Don's gang and the main villain of the story. He is a cunning and ruthless man who has connections in high places. He poses as an Interpol officer named R.K. Malik, who is supposedly in charge of the Don case. He uses this disguise to manipulate the police and the gang members, and to kill anyone who comes close to exposing him.
Inspector S. Verma: The comic relief character of the film, played by Satyendra Kapoor. Verma is a police inspector who works under D'Silva and later Malik. He is a clumsy and incompetent officer who often makes mistakes and gets into trouble. He is also suspicious of Vijay's identity and tries to prove that he is not Don.
Kamini: The item girl character of the film, played by Helen. Kamini is a dancer and singer who works for Don's gang. She is also Don's lover and confidante. She is loyal to him and tries to help him escape from the police. She is killed by Vardan's men when they discover that she knows too much.
The Themes
The themes of Don (1978) are as follows:
Crime: The film explores the world of crime and its consequences. It shows how crime affects not only the criminals but also the innocent people who get involved in it. It also shows how crime can be a lucrative but dangerous business, as Don and his gang enjoy a lavish lifestyle but also face constant threats from their enemies and the law.
Identity: The film explores the concept of identity and its importance. It shows how identity can be a source of power or vulnerability, depending on how it is used or misused. It also shows how identity can be changed or manipulated, as Vijay impersonates Don and Vardan impersonates Malik. It also shows how identity can be lost or regained, as Vijay struggles to prove his true self and J.J. tries to reconnect with his family.
Revenge: The film explores the theme of revenge and its implications. It shows how revenge can be a motive or a goal for some characters, such as Roma, J.J., and Vardan. It also shows how revenge can be a source of satisfaction or regret, depending on how it is achieved or failed. It also shows how revenge can have unintended consequences, such as creating more enemies or hurting innocent people.
Loyalty: The film explores the theme of loyalty and its significance. It shows how loyalty can be a virtue or a vice, depending on whom it is given to or taken from. It also shows how loyalty can be tested or betrayed, as Vijay faces dilemmas and challenges while working for Don's gang. It also shows how loyalty can be rewarded or punished, as some characters are helped or harmed by their allies or foes.
Justice: The film explores the theme of justice and its meaning. It shows how justice can be a right or a privilege, depending on who has access to it or denies it. It also shows how justice can be served or denied, as some characters are caught or escaped by the law. It also shows how justice can be fair or unfair, as some characters are vindicated or victimized by their actions or circumstances.
The Making of Don (1978)
The Production
The production of Don (1978) was a challenging and interesting process. The film was written by SalimJaved, who were one of the most successful screenwriting duos in Bollywood history. They had previously written hit films like Zanjeer (1973), Deewaar (1975), Sholay (1975), and Trishul (1978), all starring Amitabh Bachchan. They were inspired by films like The Godfather (1972), Scarface (1932), James Bond series, and Mr. India (1961) while writing Don (1978).
The film was directed by Chandra Barot, who was a former assistant director to Manoj Kumar. He had previously directed only one film, Kala Sona (1975), which was a flop. He was given the opportunity to direct Don (1978) by producer Nariman Irani, who was impressed by his work ethic and vision. Irani was also the cinematographer of the film, and he used innovative techniques and angles to capture the mood and atmosphere of the film. He also used a lot of zooms, pans, and tilts to create dynamic and dramatic shots. He was unfortunately killed in an accident before the film was released, and the film was dedicated to his memory.
The film was edited by Waman Bhonsle and Gurudutt Shirali, who were also known for their work in films like Sholay (1975), Deewaar (1975), and Trishul (1978). They used fast-paced and smooth transitions to keep the audience engaged and entertained. They also used parallel editing to show the contrast and connection between different scenes and characters.
The film had a budget of Rs. 7 million, which was considered high for that time. The film was shot in various locations, such as Mumbai, Delhi, Goa, and Nepal. The film also used some foreign locations, such as Kuala Lumpur and Paris, to give it a global appeal. The film also used some special effects, such as explosions, car chases, and stunts, to make it more thrilling and realistic.
The Music
The music of Don (1978) was composed by KalyanjiAnandji, who were one of the most prolific and versatile music directors in Bollywood history. They had previously composed music for films like Saraswatichandra (1968), Johny Mera Naam (1970), Kora Kagaz (1974), and Muqaddar Ka Sikandar (1978), among others. They were known for their ability to create different genres and styles of music, ranging from classical to folk to disco to rock.
The lyrics of the songs were written by Anjaan and Indeevar, who were also renowned lyricists in Bollywood history. They had previously written lyrics for films like Zanjeer (1973), Deewaar (1975), Sholay (1975), and Trishul (1978), among others. They were known for their ability to create catchy and meaningful words that matched the mood and theme of the songs.
The songs of Don (1978) were sung by various singers, such as Kishore Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle, Usha Mangeshkar, Mohammed Rafi, and Amitabh Bachchan himself. The songs were also choreographed by various choreographers, such as P.L. Raj, Kamal Kumar Rebari, Suresh Bhatt, and Herman Benjamin. The songs were a mix of different genres and styles, such as romantic, sad, playful, suspenseful, and disco.
The songs of Don (1978) are as follows:
Yeh Mera Dil Yaar Ka Diwana: This is a disco song sung by Asha Bhosle and picturized on Helen and Amitabh Bachchan. It is a seductive song where Kamini tries to woo Don with her dance moves and expressions. It is one of the most popular songs of the film and won Asha Bhosle the Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer.
Khayke Paan Banaraswala: This is a folk song sung by Kishore Kumar and Amitabh Bachchan and picturized on Amitabh Bachchan and Zeenat Aman. It is a playful song where Vijay tries to impress Roma with his paan-eating skills and charm. It is one of the most fun-filled songs of the film and became a hit among the masses.
Are Diwano Mujhe Pehchano: This is a rock song sung by Kishore Kumar and picturized on Amitabh Bachchan. It is an introduction song where Don makes his entry in a stylish manner and declares his identity and attitude. It is one of the most energetic songs of the film and became a signature tune for Amitabh Bachchan.
Jiska Mujhe Tha Intezar: This is a romantic song sung by Lata Mangeshkar and Kishore Kumar and picturized on Zeenat Aman and Amitabh Bachchan. It is a duet song where Roma and Vijay express their love for each other. It is one of the most melodious songs of the film and became a hit among the couples.
Main Hoon Don: This is a disco song sung by Kishore Kumar and picturized on Amitabh Bachchan. It is a title song where Vijay, as Don, performs in a nightclub and entertains the crowd with his singing and dancing. It is one of the most catchy songs of the film and became a hit among the youngsters.
Ee Hai Bambai Nagariya: This is a folk song sung by Kishore Kumar and picturized on Amitabh Bachchan and Pran. It is a friendship song where Vijay and J.J. roam around the city of Mumbai and enjoy its sights and sounds. It is one of the most cheerful songs of the film and became a hit among the travelers.
The Reception
The reception of Don (1978) was very positive and successful. The film was released on 12 May 1978 and became one of the highest-grossing films of that year. It earned Rs. 70 million at the box office, and was declared a super hit by trade analysts. The film was also critically acclaimed for its story, direction, performances, music, and dialogues.
The film won several awards and nominations, such as:
Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer Asha Bhosle for "Yeh Mera Dil Yaar Ka Diwana"
Filmfare Award for Best Cinematographer Nariman Irani
Filmfare Award for Best Editing Waman Bhonsle and Gurudutt Shirali
Filmfare Award for Best Sound M.A. Shaikh
Filmfare Award nomination for Best Actor Amitabh Bachchan
Filmfare Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor Pran
Filmfare Award nomination for Best Music Director KalyanjiAnandji
Filmfare Award nomination for Best Lyricist Anjaan for "Khayke Paan Banaraswala"
Filmfare Award nomination for Best Lyricist Indeevar for "Yeh Mera Dil Yaar Ka Diwana"
The film also received positive reviews from critics and audiences, who praised its story, direction, performances, music, and dialogues. Some of the reviews are as follows:
"Don is a slick, stylish, and thrilling film that keeps you hooked till the end. Amitabh Bachchan delivers a stellar performance in a dual role, showing his versatility and charisma. Zeenat Aman is stunning and spirited as Roma, while Pran is impressive and emotional as J.J. The film also boasts of some of the best music and dialogues in Bollywood history, making it a classic that deserves to be watched again and again."
"Don is a masterpiece of Indian cinema that combines action, drama, romance, comedy, and suspense in a perfect blend. Chandra Barot proves his mettle as a director, creating a film that is fast-paced, engaging, and entertaining. Amitabh Bachchan shines as Don and Vijay, giving one of his best performances ever. Zeenat Aman is gorgeous and graceful as Roma, while Pran is superb and sincere as J.J. The film also has some of the most memorable music and dialogues in Bollywood history, making it a classic that deserves to be cherished forever."
The Legacy of Don (1978)
The Influence
The influence of Don (1978) on Indian cinema and culture is immense and undeniable. The film has inspired several remakes, sequels, and parodies in various languages, such as:
Don (2006) A Hindi remake directed by Farhan Akhtar and starring Shah Rukh Khan as Don and Vijay, Priyanka Chopra as Roma, Arjun Rampal as J.J., Boman Irani as D'Silva, and Om Puri as Malik. The film was a commercial and critical success, and also had a sequel, Don 2 (2011).
Billa (1980) A Tamil remake directed by R. Krishnamurthy and starring Rajinikanth as Billa and Rajappa, Sripriya as Priya, K. Balaji as J.K., Thengai Srinivasan as DSP Anand, and Major Sundarrajan as Rajan. The film was a blockbuster hit, and also had a remake, Billa (2007), starring Ajith Kumar.
Dharmatma (1975) A Hindi adaptation directed by Feroz Khan and starring Feroz Khan as Dharmatma and Ranbir, Hema Malini as Reshma, Prem Nath as Dharamdas, Danny Denzongpa as Jankura, and Rekha as Anu. The film was the first Indian film to be shot in Afghanistan, and was a box office hit.
Don No. 1 (2007) A Telugu remake directed by Raghava Lawrence and starring Nagarjuna as Don and Suriya, Anushka Shetty as Priya, Raghava Lawrence as Raghava, Kelly Dorji as D'Silva, and Nikita Thukral as Kamini. The film was a super hit, and also had a sequel, Don 2 (2012).
Don: The Chase Begins Again (2006) A Malayalam spoof directed by Shafi and starring Dileep as Unni/Don, Gopika as Priya, Lal as Jeevan/J.J., Siddique as D'Silva/Malik, and Harisree Ashokan as Verma. The film was a comedy hit, and also had a sequel, Mr. Marumakan (2012).
The film also established Amitabh Bachchan as one of the most popular actors in India, and gave him the nickname of "Angry Young Man". He became known for his action-oriented roles, his deep voice, his charismatic screen presence, and his iconic dialogues. He also became a style icon for his costumes, hairstyle, and accessories in the film.
The film also had an impact on genres, styles, actors, directors, and remakes in Indian cinema. It influenced the trend of crime thrillers, action dramas, masala films, and double roles in Bollywood. It also inspired many actors to emulate Amitabh Bachchan's style and mannerisms, such as Shah Rukh Khan, Akshay Kumar, Salman Khan, and Hrithik Roshan. It also inspired many directors to experiment with different themes and techniques, such as Farhan Akhtar, Ram Gopal Varma, Sanjay Gupta, and Rohit Shetty. It also encouraged many filmmakers to remake or adapt classic films with a modern twist, such as Agneepath (2012), Zanjeer (2013), Sholay 3D (2014), and Deewaar: Let's Bring Our Heroes Home (2004).
The Dialogues
The dialogues of Don (1978) are one of the most memorable aspects of the film. They are witty, catchy, and powerful, and have become popular filmy quotes that are often used or referenced by fans and celebrities alike. Some of the most iconic dialogues from the film are:
"Don ka intezar toh baarah mulko ki police kar rahi hai ... lekin Don ko pakadna mushkil hi nahi ... namumkin hai" ("The police of twelve countries are waiting for Don ... but catching Don is not just difficult ... it's impossible") This is Don's introduction dialogue that establishes his character and reputation.
"Mujhe junglee billiyan bahut pasand hai ... khaas kar woh jo mujhe khaana chahti hai" ("I like wild cats very much ... especially those who want to eat me") This is Don's flirtatious dialogue that shows his attraction towards Roma.
"Don ko pakadna mushkil hi nahi ... namumkin hai ... aur main woh Don hoon" ("Catching Don is not just difficult ... it's impossible ... and I am that Don") This is Vijay's dialogue that reveals his identity to Vardan.
"Aaj mere paas building hai, property hai, bank balance hai ... tumhare paas kya hai?" "Mere paas maa hai" ("Today I have buildings, property, bank balance ... what do you have?" "I have mother") This is a dialogue from Deewaar (1975) that is spoofed by Don and J.J. in a comic scene.
"Don ke dushman ko hamesha yeh baat yaad rakhni chahiye ... ki Don kabhi kuch nahi bhoolta" ("Don's enemies should always remember this ... that Don never forgets anything") This is Don's warning dialogue that shows his vengeful nature.
"Don ka baadshah banne ka shauk hai mujhe ... lekin uske liye pehle Don ko marna padega" ("I have a desire to become the king of Don ... but for that I have to kill Don first") This is Vijay's dialogue that shows his ambition and dilemma.
The Trivia
The trivia of Don (1978) are as follows:
The film was originally titled as "Don: A Wanted Man", but was later changed to "Don" for simplicity and impact.
The film was inspired by the real-life story of Haji Mastan, a notorious smuggler and gangster who operated in Mumbai in the 1970s.
The film was also influenced by the Hollywood films The French Connection (1971), Enter the Dragon (1973), and The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974).
The film was remade in Telugu as Yugandhar (1979), starring N.T. Rama Rao as Yugandhar and Raja, Jayasudha as Radha, Jayachitra as Jaya, Kaikala Satyanarayana as DCP Anand, and Allu Ramalingaiah as Verma.
The film was also remade in Turkish as Davaro (1981), starring Kemal Sunal as Davaro and Kemal, Ayşen Gruda as Ayşe, Şener Şen as Şener, Adile Naşit as Adile, and Sümer Tilmaç as Tilmaç.
The film was the last film of producer Nariman Irani, who died in an accident while shooting another film, Zabardast (1985).
The film was the first film of director Chandra Barot, who did not direct any other film after that.
The film was the debut film of actor Om Shivpuri, who played the dual role of Vardan and Malik.
The film was the only film where Amitabh Bachchan played a negative role until Aankhen (2002).
The film was the only film where Amitabh Bachchan sang a song with Kishore Kumar, "Khayke Paan Banaraswala".
Conclusion
Don (1978) is a classic Bollywood movie that deserves to be watched and appreciated by all filmy fans. It is a film that has everything: a gripping story, a brilliant direction, a stellar performance, a melodious music, and a memorable dialogue. It is a film that has influenced and inspired many other films, actors, directors, and genres in Indian cinema. It is a film that has become a part of Indian culture and history. It is a film that has made Amitabh Bachchan the superstar that he is today. It is a film that has made Don the legend that he is today.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Don (1978) and their answers:
Q: Who played the role of Don in the original Don (1978)?
A: Amitabh Bachchan played the role of Don in the original Don (1978).
Q: Who directed the remake of Don (2006)?
A: Farhan Akhtar directed the remake of Don (2006).
Q: What was the name of the song that Amitabh Bachchan sang with Kishore Kumar in Don (1978)?
A: The name of the song that Amitabh Bachchan sang with Kishore Kumar in Don (1978) was "Khayke Paan Banaraswala".
Q: What was the name of the character played by Zeenat Aman in Don (1978)?
A: The name of the character played by Zeenat Aman in Don (1978) was Roma.
Q: Who won the Filmfare Award for Be