Khilona review :
A kind hearted courtesan (Mumtaz) is appointed by a rich Thakur to heal his mad son (Sanjeev Kumar) who lost his sanity in love. At concept level, Khilona was a different re-telling of the classic Devdas story but it was Mumtaz who owned the film from its first frame till the last.
Indeed, Madame Mumtaz was outstanding in the film whether performing a lovely mujra or sympathizing with her fake hubby Sanjeev Kumar who in a fit of madness, rapes her one night. Mumtaz rightly won the best actress Filmfare award for Khilona. Its her best, no doubt.
Of the supporting cast, Ramesh Deo was natural as Sanjeev Kumar's elder bro. Jeetendra was the films surprise element as the chotte bhaiyya who falls for Mumtaz and starts fantasizing about her. It's a small role but Jeetu makes it memorable. Shatrughan Sinha, then a struggler, plays the aiyyash villain who tries to create trouble in the family. He displayed a glimpse of his much loved bihari babu style which went on to become his trademark later..
Laxmikant Pyarelal's music was popular particularly the title track picturised on Sanjeev Kumar and Mumtaz.
I saw Khilona during its 90s re-run at Paradise Cinema, Mahim. Being a Mumtaz fan, I had seen most of her 70s films during their later re-runs. A must watch for her fans and those who wish to see the Devdas story end happily. Tee hee!!
Regards,
Sumeet Nadkarni