Stuck for nearly four decades, Rajinikanth-Shatrughan Sinha-starrer Hum Mein Shahenshah Koun set for theatrical release

Producer Raja Roy, brother of actress Reena Roy, has revived his long-delayed Hindi film Hum Mein Shahenshah Koun, starring Shatrughan Sinha, Rajinikanth, Hema Malini, Anita Raaj, Prem Chopra, the late Jagdeep and Amrish Puri. Shot in 1989, the film remained unreleased for 37 years and is now finally set for a theatrical release.

After principal photography was completed, Raja moved to London, leaving the project unfinished. Although there were attempts to revive the film over the years, a series of personal setbacks, including the untimely loss of his son and later the death of director Harmesh Malhotra, pushed it further into limbo. Eventually, Raja returned to India with the resolve to complete the project.




Reflecting on the film’s long and difficult journey, Raja said, “We never lost hope for this film. Many tragic events have unfolded over the decades, both personally and professionally. Today, I feel grateful that we are finally able to release it in cinemas. This film has endured grief, setbacks, and silence, yet it has survived. This is not just a movie for me; it is my child.”

Speaking about the technical upgrade, Raja explained, “It is an action film driven by Vendetta. We have used the latest technology to enhance the viewing experience. AI tools were employed for visual smoothing, audio mastering, and to bridge gaps in certain scenes, ensuring continuity without compromising the original performances or narrative structure. I have embraced new-generation techniques while retaining the soul of the film. The final result is now in the audience’s hands.”

Shabana and Aslam Mirza, associate producers of the film, played a key role in restoring and completing the project using modern technology. Aslam said, “For nearly five years, I have been working to revive this film. Many people advised me to release it with minimal corrections, but I felt that would be unfair to the film, especially considering Raja Roy ji’s passion and the years of waiting behind this project. The film deserved to be completed properly and presented in a digitally refreshed, modern format on the big screen. We have also added a new song with a contemporary feel to complement the film.”

Addressing the legal clearances required for the revival, Raja shares that the necessary permissions were secured decades ago. He said, “We obtained NOCs from all the actors back in the 90s.” Speaking about the cast’s response to the film finally seeing the light of day, Raja shared, “I share a very warm relationship with Shatrughan Sinhaji. When I informed him about the release, he congratulated the entire team and expressed his willingness to actively participate in the promotions. I am in discussions with Rajinikanthji and will be meeting him soon to talk about promoting the film in the South.”

When we reached out to Hema Malini, she chose not to speak about the film but wished the team the very best.

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