Anupam Kher’s Unique Ritual: Pays ₹25,000 to Mahesh Bhatt After Every Film

| Published: Thursday, March 26, 2026, 15:51 [IST]

Veteran actor Anupam Kher has revealed a heartfelt tradition that continues to define his decades-long journey in cinema. From his breakthrough in Saaransh to becoming one of India’s most respected actors, his bond with filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt remains deeply rooted in gratitude.

Now, his candid revelations about a unique “guru ritual” and plans for an action comeback are grabbing attention across search trends.

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A Bond That Began with Saaransh

Anupam Kher’s journey in Bollywood started with Mahesh Bhatt’s Saaransh in the 1980s–a film that not only launched his career but also became a defining moment in Indian cinema. Over the years, their professional relationship evolved into something deeply personal, with Kher often referring to Bhatt as his “guru.”

This connection continues to remain relevant even today, decades after his debut.

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The ₹25,000 Ritual That Still Continues

In a recent interaction, Anupam Kher shared that he follows a unique tradition after every film–he gives ₹25,000 to Mahesh Bhatt as a token of gratitude.

Interestingly, this ritual began with a much smaller amount during his early days. What started as ₹250 gradually increased over time, symbolically reflecting both his growth and changing times. Today, the gesture remains more emotional than financial, something Kher himself describes as a “ritual with a touch of humour.”

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From ₹250 to ₹25,000: A Story of Growth

Kher revealed that the amount evolved step by step–from ₹250 to ₹500, then ₹1,000, ₹5,000, and eventually ₹25,000. According to him, Bhatt jokingly attributes the increase to “inflation.”

Despite the light-hearted tone, the tradition highlights a rare sense of gratitude in an industry driven by constant change. It’s less about money and more about acknowledging the person who gave him his first big opportunity.

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Saaransh 2: An Action Twist in the Making?

Beyond nostalgia, Anupam Kher is also looking ahead. The actor expressed his desire to revisit Saaransh in a completely new format–this time as an action-driven story.

He shared that he has been working on his fitness and is keen to take on physically demanding roles. Drawing inspiration from Hollywood action films like Taken, Kher envisions a character who protects and saves others, marking a bold shift from his earlier roles.

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Reinventing Himself with Confidence

At a stage where many actors slow down, Kher is doing the opposite. He openly spoke about embracing fitness and even showcasing his physical transformation, despite the risk of criticism.

For him, evolving as an actor is essential, and stepping into action roles represents both a challenge and an opportunity to break stereotypes associated with age and genre.

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A Journey Rooted in Passion and Persistence

Kher also reflected on his early struggles, recalling how close he came to losing Saaransh before ultimately proving himself. That defining moment shaped his career and strengthened his determination.

Today, whether it’s his continued respect for his mentor or his willingness to reinvent himself, Anupam Kher’s story stands as a reminder that longevity in cinema is built on passion, resilience, and gratitude.

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Final Take

From a young actor fighting for his first role to a seasoned performer still pushing boundaries, Anupam Kher’s journey remains inspiring. His ₹25,000 ritual with Mahesh Bhatt is more than just a gesture–it’s a symbol of loyalty and respect rarely seen in the industry.

And with Saaransh 2 possibly taking an action-packed turn, audiences may soon witness yet another surprising chapter in his evolving career.

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