Abhishek Bachchan Dies In Delhi 6? Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra Reveals Why Film's End Had To Be Changed

Acclaimed

director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra has recently opened up about the original version of his 2009 film Delhi 6, revealing details on how different it was from the version that eventually reached Indian theatres. According to the director, the first cut of the film, which was screened at international festivals, began with a powerful and unexpected reveal that changed the entire tone of the story.Rakeysh explained that the original opening started with the death of Abhishek Bachchan’s character. The film opened with a striking visual of the protagonist’s ashes being immersed in the Ganges, accompanied by a voiceover. This opening gave way to the information that the protagonist was already dead, setting an unusual tone for the film.

Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra Says Delhi‑6’s Original Version Began With Abhishek Bachchan’s Death

Rakeysh Mehra described this approach as an important method of storytelling that was meant to challenge viewers and set the tone. This version of Delhi 6, referred to as the “director’s cut” was screened at the Venice Film Festival, where it received attention for its unconventional structure. However, when it came to the Indian release, Rakeysh Mehra decided to alter both the opening and the ending. Looking back, the director stated that this change was a mistake driven by others opinions and his own doubts about how Indian audiences might react to such an introduction. He revealed that many people who watched the early cut advised him to change the narrative and end. He also revealed that he 'regretted it'.

About Delhi 6

Upon its release, Delhi 6, featured Sonam Kapoor alongside Abhishek, was praised for AR Rahman's music, visuals, and performances but didn't make an impact at the box office. Over time, the film was hailed as a cult classic. The film also starred Aditi Rao Hydari, Rishi Kapoor, Supriya Pathak, Atul Kulkarni, Pavan Malhotra, Deepak Dobriyal, Divya Dutta, Vijay Raaz and Om Puri.