Bollywood legend Dharmendra recently reflected on his role in Karan Johar's 2023 film, 'Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani,' particularly the kissing scene with Shabana Azmi that generated considerable buzz. In a recent interview, the veteran actor shared his thoughts on the film's approach to romance, emphasizing the emotional depth of the scene.

The film, a blend of comedy and romance, features Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt as the lead couple, Rocky and Rani. The story revolves around their contrasting personalities and their decision to live with each other's families for three months before getting married. It explores cultural clashes, personal growth, and the evolving relationship between the couple.

Dharmendra described filming the kissing scene with Shabana Azmi as "aesthetic" and highlighted that "there is no age for romance." He humorously recounted a conversation with Ranveer Singh, stating, "Maine Ranveer ko bola, Ranveer, Rocky aur Rani ki prem kahani me, tune to bohot kisses ki hain, or meri ek hi kiss ne hila dala logo ko." This translates to: "I told Ranveer, 'You had many kisses in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, but just one kiss of mine shook everyone.'"

He elaborated that the scene was not included for shock value but was an important emotional beat for his character, who he compared to a tragic, Devdas-like figure. “In a way, he was like Devdas, the Devdas who wandered in alcohol, with no memory of anything, and then he dies… It's tragic, and it was a good story.”

Dharmendra also addressed the audience's reaction to the scene. "I am hearing that Shabana and I have surprised the audience with the kissing scene, and at the same time they have even applauded it. I think people weren't expecting it and it came very suddenly which is why it created an impact." He also reminisced about a previous kissing scene in 'Life In A Metro' with Nafisa Ali, which was also well-received.

Karan Johar also shared his experience directing the scene, revealing that he faced no resistance from either Dharmendra or Shabana Azmi. He praised them as "two great veterans, performing with absolute aplomb, no questions asked." Johar wanted the scene to be "just a peck and nothing more than that" and chose the song 'Abhi Na Jaao Chod Kar' to underscore the love between their characters.

Shabana Azmi, in an earlier interview, also commented on the scene, "I never thought it would create such a fuss! People are laughing and cheering when we do the kiss. While shooting, it was never an issue... But who wouldn't want to kiss a man as handsome as Dharmendra?"

The kiss between Dharmendra and Shabana Azmi became a significant talking point, demonstrating that romance and love have no age limits.