Prakash Mehra's Unconventional Success: 4 Films, No Star Credit, All Hits!

• Filmmaker Prakash Mehra achieved massive success with four films by not crediting lead actors at the start, instead promoting his own production house.
• This unique strategy began after 1976's 'Hera Pheri', with films like 'Muqaddar Ka Sikandar', 'Laawaris', 'Namak Halaal', and 'Sharaabi' following suit.
• 'Muqaddar Ka Sikandar' (1978), starring Amitabh Bachchan, Rekha, Vinod Khanna, was a blockbuster, collecting 8.5 crores on a 1 crore budget.
• 'Laawaris' (1981), 'Namak Halaal' (1982), and 'Sharaabi' (1984) also became superhits, featuring Amitabh Bachchan and other prominent stars.
• Mehra, who struggled initially, established himself as a brand, even making Amitabh Bachchan an overnight star with 'Zanjeer'.

Why It Matters: Prakash Mehra proved a filmmaker's vision and brand could overshadow star power for box office success.