Subhash Ghai recalls Rishi Kapoor's reaction after 'Karz' TANKED at the box office; 'Cult classic left team 'Depressed' initially'

Filmmaker Subhash Ghai has opened up on the extraordinary journey of his iconic film 'Karz', which completed 46 years on June 27.While the musical thriller is now celebrated as one of Hindi cinema's greatest classics, Subhash Ghai revealed that its theatrical release in 1980 brought disappointment rather than celebration.

According to the filmmaker, the entire team struggled to come to terms with the film's poor box-office performance, with late actor Rishi Kapoor being particularly affected. Sharing his thoughts on social media, Subhash Ghai revisited the highs and lows of the film's legacy.

Rare throwback pictures

Subhash Ghai shared a collage featuring recent celebrations dedicated to 'Karz' alongside a rare behind-the-scenes photograph from the film's production.

The vintage image captured the filmmaker directing Rishi Kapoor and Tina Munim during a scene from the movie. The collage also included the original theatrical poster, reminding audiences of the film's memorable release in 1980.Accompanying the pictures, Subhash Ghai reflected on the dramatic shift in the film's legacy over the decades. He wrote, "Today: they call it a GRAND MUSICAL SHOW. YESTERDAY: They called it a FLOP SHOW on release 1980, 27 June.-We

all were depressed, Rishi Kapoor specially. Today we all celebrate it as evergreen musical film. We all come together to celebrate its 46th year n miss our great actor friend #RISHI KAPOOR of KARZ.

NOW On the way to be a MUSICAL STAGE SHOW BROADWAY SOON. Congratulations the team of #KARZ produced by MUKTA FILMS 1980."

From box-office setback to cult status

Released on June 27, 1980, 'Karz' was written, directed, and produced by Subhash Ghai. The reincarnation thriller featured Rishi Kapoor in the lead alongside Tina Munim, Simi Garewal, Raj Kiran, Prem Nath, Pran, and Durga Khote.

Although the film struggled commercially upon release, its reputation steadily grew over the years. Today, Karz is widely regarded as one of the finest musical thrillers produced in Indian cinema The film's soundtrack played a major role in its enduring popularity.

Composed by the legendary duo Laxmikant-Pyarelal with lyrics by Anand Bakshi, the album became one of Bollywood's most celebrated musical works.Songs including 'Om Shanti Om', 'Ek Hasina Thi', and several others continue to enjoy lasting popularity among music lovers.