Remember the dashing Joy Mukherjee from Shagird? The romantic hero of the ’60s turned down his debut film offer – not once, but effectively twice – over pocket change. Born February 24, 1939, in Jhansi to filmmaker Shashadhar Mukherjee, Joy grew up in privilege. His uncle Ashok Kumar was a Dada Saheb Phalke icon, and the family shaped Bollywood’s early years with films like Kismet.
College life for young Joy revolved around sports: wrestling, tennis, football. Enter relative Ram Mukherjee, directing Hum Hindustani in 1960. He cast Joy as Sunil Dutt’s brother for 15 bucks. ‘No thanks,’ said the athlete.
When the fee soared to 200 rupees – ideal for jेब खर्च – Joy relented. Sharing screen space with Helen (no A-lister wanted the role), it was a humble start in a major film.
Fame exploded with Love in Simla opposite Sadhana. Hits poured in: Phir Wohi Dil Laya Hoon, Ek Musafir Ek Haseena, Love in Tokyo – all O.P. Nayyar musicals that defined an era.
Joy tried his hand at direction with Chhaila Babu and production on Humsaya and Miss Bombay. Box-office disappointments led to struggles, including roles in obscure titles like Aag aur Daag.
The legend departed on March 9, 2012. Joy’s tale reminds us: sometimes, the right price unlocks destiny.