A Diwali Blockbuster in Bollywood: How ‘Seeta Aur Geeta’ Changed Cinema History 53 Years Ago

In Indian cinema, releasing films during festivals has been an old and successful tradition. Diwali, in particular, is considered an auspicious period for record-breaking box office collections. About 53 years ago, in 1972, superstar Dharmendra and dream girl Hema Malini starred in a film that not only became the biggest hit of the year but also gave the double-role formula in Hindi cinema a new identity. We are talking about the blockbuster directed by Ramesh Sippy, Seeta Aur Geeta.

A Historic Release That Set the Box Office on Fire

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Seeta Aur Geeta was released in cinemas on 17 November 1972. It’s important to note that Diwali that year was celebrated on 5 November. At that time, it was customary to release films shortly after the festival, so the festive mood would continue to drive box office success in the following weeks. The release of Seeta Aur Geeta proved perfect for this strategy.

Record-Breaking Success

The film instantly became a massive hit among audiences. Hema Malini delivered an unforgettable performance in a double role as twin sisters Seeta and Geeta, with completely contrasting personalities, earning her the Filmfare Best Actress Award. Dharmendra and Sanjeev Kumar made their mark in supporting roles.

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Seeta Aur Geeta went on to become the highest-grossing Bollywood film of 1972, setting new benchmarks for success with its engaging story and stellar performances. The film was directed by Ramesh Sippy, while the entertaining story and sharp dialogues were penned by the famous duo Salim-Javed. This trio (Ramesh Sippy and Salim-Javed) went on to create the cult classic ‘Sholay’ in 1975, once again featuring Dharmendra and Hema Malini in lead roles.

Why Did This Pair Become Such a Big Hit?

The overwhelming success of Seeta Aur Geeta established Dharmendra and Hema Malini as a superhit on-screen pair. Audiences loved their chemistry both on and off-screen. Beyond this film, the iconic duo starred together in several other hits like Sholay, Jugnu, Pratiggya, Charas, and Dream Girl, cementing their place in the history of Hindi cinema.

Thus, the Diwali season of 1972 became truly memorable thanks to the unprecedented success of Seeta Aur Geeta, which gave Bollywood a new blockbuster formula and an immortal on-screen pair.

Also Read:Dharmendra Sad After Daughter Separation: Actor Wanted Esha Deol to Save Marriage

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