Rajinikanth, Shatrughan Sinha and Hema Malini’s Film Hum Mein Shehenshah Kaun to Release After 37 Years

By Shantiswaroop Tripathi

Back in 1989, producer Raja Roy—brother of actress Reena Roy—completed the shooting of a film titled Hum Mein Shehenshah Kaun, starring Rajinikanth, Shatrughan Sinha, Hema Malini, Anita Raj, and Amrish Puri. However, despite being fully shot, the film was shelved and never released. Soon after, Raja Roy moved to London, England, and the project remained locked away in cans.

According to media reports, after a long gap of 37 years, Raja Roy has now decided to finally bring this film to theatres—especially for Rajinikanth’s fans.

As per reports, Hum Mein Shehenshah Kaun was directed by the late filmmaker Harmesh Malhotra, a well-known name of that era. Now, 37 years later, producer Raja Roy is preparing for its theatrical release. The film features Rajinikanth, Shatrughan Sinha, Hema Malini, and Anita Raj in pivotal roles. This release will allow audiences to once again experience the style, power, and screen presence of these stars as they were nearly four decades ago, along with stalwarts like Amrish Puri.

The multi-starrer Hindi film Hum Mein Shehenshah Kaun, packed with performances by Rajinikanth, Shatrughan Sinha, Hema Malini, Anita Raj, and others, is now completely ready for a nationwide theatrical release. Produced under the banner of Raja Roy Films, the cast also includes Prem Chopra, Sharat Saxena, the late Amrish Puri, and the late Jagdeep—icons who truly represent the golden era of Indian cinema during which the film was made.

Not just the cast, but the entire creative team reflects Bollywood’s golden period. The film was directed by the late Harmesh Malhotra, dialogues were written by Salim Faiz, music was composed by the legendary duo Laxmikant–Pyarelal, lyrics were penned by the late Anand Bakshi, and choreography was by the iconic Saroj Khan. The film is presented by Remix Music Entertainment, further strengthening its classic Bollywood legacy.

Shot on 35mm Eastman Color film stock, Hum Mein Shehenshah Kaun showcases the richness of Eastman Kodak’s color palette and the grandeur of Technicolor-style visuals.

Before the film could even be sent for censor certification, a deep personal tragedy struck producer Raja Roy, forcing him to shut everything down and move to London. In a heartbreaking incident, he lost his young son, a shock that completely halted the film’s progress. Later, when Roy attempted to revive plans for the release, another major setback occurred with the passing of director Harmesh Malhotra on November 22, 2005, bringing all efforts to a standstill once again.

Over time, Hum Mein Shehenshah Kaun became a story of struggle and resilience. Co-producers Aslam Mirza and Shabana Mirza refused to give up on the film. Adapting to changing times and technology, they continued efforts to complete it. With the help of modern techniques, the film has undergone AI-assisted restoration, 4K remastering, and 5.1 surround sound mastering—ensuring that its essence remains untouched while meeting today’s cinematic standards.

Producer Raja Roy has stated that he never gave up hope on this film, despite the grief, obstacles, and challenges it endured. According to him, the film surviving all odds and finally reaching the brink of release feels like destiny being fulfilled.

Co-producer Aslam Mirza added that technology was used with extreme sensitivity. AI tools were employed only to enhance visuals and sound, without affecting performances, storytelling, or the original creative vision. Maintaining the film’s classic look was a top priority for Aslam Mirza, Shabana Mirza, and Raja Roy alike, while still making it suitable for contemporary audiences.

Although all preparations are now complete, much has changed in Bollywood over the last 37 years. Today, commerce often takes precedence over art and emotion. This raises the question—will the artists associated with the film extend their support for its release? Addressing this, Raja Roy told Bombay Times that he had already secured all necessary permissions and NOCs back in the 1990s. He shares a warm relationship with Shatrughan Sinha, who not only congratulated the entire team but also promised full support in promotions. Discussions with Rajinikanth are ongoing, and Raja Roy plans to meet him soon to seek his support for promotions in the South as well.

Hum Mein Shehenshah Kaun is not the only film that remained unreleased for decades. Pan-India superstar Rajinikanth, now 74, continues to dominate the box office, but several of his films—Laal Tope, Takraav, Tu Hi Meri Zindagi, Watan Ke Saudagar, Shinakht, Raasta Pattharon Ka, Jaggu Bhai, Rana, and Ghar Ka Bhedi—never saw the light of day.

Similarly, Shatrughan Sinha has unreleased films like Daraar, Betaaj Badshah, Aulad Ke Dushman, and Yaar Meri Zindagi. Hema Malini’s list of unreleased films is also long, including Naye Wahin Toote Pankh, Dagdu Havaldar, and Baap. She was also set to direct a classical-music-based film titled Babul, starring Rekha and Esha Deol as mother and daughter, but the project never moved forward.

In essence, every artist has a few films that remain shelved due to various reasons. In such a scenario, Raja Roy’s decision to finally release Hum Mein Shehenshah Kaun deserves appreciation and support.