SD Burman Called Hare Rama Hare Krishna 'Disgusting'; Zeenat Aman Not First Choice

• Legendary composer S. D. Burman initially called Dev Anand's original storyline for *Hare Rama Hare Krishna* 'disgusting' and advised against making the film.
• The initial plot involved Dev Anand's character falling in love with and planning to marry a girl, only to discover she was his sister, leading to S. D. Burman's strong disapproval.
• Zeenat Aman was not the first choice for the role of Janice; actress Zaheeda was initially considered but declined due to concerns about playing a sister after being a heroine in *Gambler*.
• S. D. Burman suggested his son, R. D. Burman, for the music, recognizing the film's modern themes, which proved to be a defining decision for its soundscape.
• Special permission was granted by King Mahendra for non-Hindu crew members, including Zeenat Aman and Fali Mistry, to shoot at the sacred Pashupatinath Temple in Nepal.

Why It Matters: Dev Anand's *Hare Rama Hare Krishna* faced initial resistance from S. D. Burman and casting challenges.