At the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, veteran director Rahul Rawail shared heartfelt memories of working with Sunny Deol and his father, the legendary Dharmendra. Rawail, who directed Sunny Deol in his debut film "Betaab" (1983), recounted anecdotes that highlighted Dharmendra's unwavering support and love for his son.
Rawail's session at IFFI 2025 provided a nostalgic look back at the making of "Betaab" and the dynamics within the Deol family. He recalled how Dharmendra, despite his own stardom, was deeply invested in Sunny's career. "Dharamji was an extremely supportive father," Rawail stated. "He would watch 'Betaab' every day in a theatre to gauge the audience's reaction and support his son." This level of commitment from a father, especially one of Dharmendra's stature, left a lasting impression on the young director.
The director also shared insights into Sunny Deol's early days in the film industry. Rawail emphasized Sunny's dedication and hard work, noting that he was determined to prove himself. "Sunny was very focused and sincere," Rawail mentioned. "He knew he had big shoes to fill, and he worked tirelessly to carve his own path." Rawail's direction in "Betaab" successfully launched Sunny's career, establishing him as a leading action hero in Bollywood.
The session also touched upon the challenges faced during the film's production. Rawail revealed that shooting in the picturesque locations of Kashmir presented logistical difficulties, but the team persevered, driven by their passion for the project. He also credited the film's success to the chemistry between Sunny Deol and his co-star Amrita Singh, which resonated with the audience.
Rawail, known for directing several successful films in the 1980s and 1990s, including "Arjun," "Dacait," and "Anjaam," also reflected on the evolution of Bollywood over the years. He acknowledged the changes in filmmaking techniques and audience preferences but stressed the importance of storytelling and emotional connection. "Technology has undoubtedly transformed the industry, but the core of filmmaking remains the same – to tell stories that move people," he observed.
The director's interaction at IFFI 2025 not only celebrated Sunny Deol's journey but also honored Dharmendra's role as a supportive father. The anecdotes shared by Rawail offered a glimpse into the personal lives of these Bollywood icons, making the session a memorable event at the film festival. The event highlighted the importance of family support in navigating the challenging world of the film industry.
