50 years of ‘Julie’ : Ravishing Laxmi and music still afresh in our memories

Milind Dharmasena

Fifty years ago, on March 18 ,1975, ’JULIE’ hit Indian cinema screens with a story unlike anything seen before. It wasn’t just another love story; it depicted restrictive social taboos like inter- religious marriage and unwed motherhood in India .This Hindi remake of the Malayalam film (1974) was a critical and commercial success.

Many films had touched upon such themes, but this one impressed the youth. It depicted restrictive social norms regarding unwed motherhood. Other films on such topic were sad and suppressing; this was beautiful, touching, romantic, glamorous and bold.

Back then, action movies dominated. It was the year of Deewaar. Amitabh Bachchan was the ‘Angry Young Man,’ and Rajesh Khanna’s romantic era was fading. But Julie brought something fresh.
And then, the costume; a miniskirt, new to the audience. The song; Bhool Gaya Sab Kuch, with a love-making scene, and a melody that felt completely new. The tunes, modern aesthetics, and an intimacy never so elegantly portrayed. Theaters filled with young men and women who had never seen romance treated with such daring honesty.

Actres Laxmi became National crush overnight after the release of Julie .

Julie was a social statement wrapped in the warmth of a love story. It wasn’t just a film; it was a moment. A moment when Indian cinema dared to talk about love without fear, and the audience; young, rebellious, eager for change listened by bunking en-masse. They were drawn to its boldness and relatability.

Julie directed by K S sethumadhavan , had Laxmi , Vikram , Jalal Agha , Utpal Dutt , Omprakash , Nadira and others in the star cast .

Music by Rajesh Roshan was the main attraction for the movie . His music complemented Laxmi’s brilliant portrayal of Julie, a ravishing college student.

A 12 year old Sridevi is not to be missed either. It was her first ever Hindi movie .

Even after 50 years, its impact remains. Both Lakshmi and the plot still feel relevant today.