Pran was looking forward to see 'Zanjeer' remake: Producer

Pran played the iconic role of 'Sher Khan' in the 1973 blockbuster, directed and produced by Prakash Mehra, Amit's father.

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Actor Sanjay Dutt in a still from 'Zanjeer' remake. Pic/IANS

That role has been essayed by Sanjay Dutt in the remake version, directed by Apoorva Lakhia. 'Zanjeer' marked the arrival of Amitabh Bachchan as the 'angry young man'. It also epitomised the coming of age of a new trend where ageing villains like Pran went versatile and took up strong character roles to hold on to their territory.

The new version, produced by Amit, will see Telugu filmstar Ram Charan, son of actor-politician Chiranjeevi, stepping into Big B's shoes, while Priyanka Chopra will reprise the role of Jaya Bachchan. "I had spoken to Pranji about 'Zanjeer' remake...he was happy about it. He gave us his blessings. He was happy that Sanjay Dutt was playing his part in the film. He was looking forward to see the film," Amit said.

The producer said he was in constant touch with Pran's family and kept him updated about the film and also checked upon his health. The Dadasaheb Phalke awardee passed away at Lilavati Hospital in Bandra last night after a prolonged illness. Expressing grief over the demise of the 93-year-old actor, Amit said, "It is a sad day for all of us. It is shocking. He was one of the finest actors we had in the industry."u00a0