Veteran actor-filmmaker Sachin Pilgaonkar recently shared a humorous anecdote from the sets of his iconic Marathi film, ‘Ashi Hi Banwa Banwi’, during an appearance on the popular quiz show ‘Kon Honar Crorepati’, hosted by Madhuri Dixit.
Joining Madhuri Dixit on the hot seat with actor Madhurani Gokhale, Pilgaonkar recounted how his mother-in-law failed to recognize him when he was in full saree attire for his role in the 1988 comedy classic.
“My mother-in-law once came to the set. When my wife, Supriya, went to meet her, I was dressed in a saree. My mother-in-law called Supriya over and asked, ‘Who was that woman standing next to you?’ Then I bent down to touch her feet and asked, ‘Didn’t you recognise me, Mom?’ She was startled,” Sachin revealed, much to the amusement of the audience and hosts.
Pilgaonkar’s saree look became one of the most memorable aspects of ‘Ashi Hi Banwa Banwi’, which remains a beloved comedy in Marathi cinema. Directed by Sachin Pilgaonkar and produced by Kiran Shantaram, the film revolved around four friends struggling to find accommodation. Two friends famously disguised themselves as women to secure a rental, leading to a series of comedic situations. The film boasted an ensemble cast including Ashok Saraf, Laxmikant Berde, Siddharth Ray, Supriya Pilgaonkar, Ashwini Bhave, and Nivedita Joshi-Saraf, and is celebrated for its timeless humour and unforgettable dialogues.