Filmmaker and actor Farhan Akhtar has opened up about an early and unforgettable incident from the sets of Lamhe that left him convinced his career in the film industry was over before it even began. Speaking on a recent podcast, Farhan recalled how his actions unintentionally caused legendary actress Sridevi to slip and fall — leading to a moment of shock across the entire crew.
A young Farhan on a big set
At the time, Farhan Akhtar was only 17 years old, working as an assistant director on Yash Chopra’s cult classic Lamhe. Surrounded by industry greats, he was still learning the ropes — from handling set duties to observing veteran performers like Sridevi and Anil Kapoor.
Farhan shared that, during one of the shoot schedules, he walked into the path where Sridevi was about to move. The sudden movement caused her to lose balance and slip slightly.
“The entire set froze,” Farhan recalled. “I genuinely thought this was it — I’m getting thrown out, and this industry phase is over before it’s even started.”
How Sridevi handled it
According to Farhan, Sridevi handled the situation with remarkable grace. Despite being one of the biggest stars of the time, she did not scold him or make him feel embarrassed. Instead, she composed herself, acknowledged the accident, and continued the shoot.
This moment, Farhan says, taught him a lasting lesson about humility, composure, and respect — both towards colleagues and towards the craft.
A memory that shaped him
Farhan noted that this incident stayed with him throughout his career — even when he went on to direct critical and commercial successes like Dil Chahta Hai and Lakshya, and later became an actor and producer.
He said the experience shaped his approach to maintaining discipline and awareness on set. It also deepened his respect for technicians, assistants, and behind-the-scenes workers who make film-making possible.
“It was embarrassing back then, but now I look at it fondly,” he shared, adding that it was one of the moments that helped him grow.
Fans recall Sridevi’s legacy
The anecdote has prompted fans to reminisce about Sridevi’s legendary grace, professionalism and her impact on generations of actors. Many online users praised her ability to remain poised, even in unexpected moments.