Bollywood's "golden era" is often referred to as the 1960s and 1970s because of the abundance of iconic movies and legendary performers who dominated the silver screen during that time. Nevertheless, despite their potential and talent, some films managed to fade into the background of the glitz and glamour. In this article, we explore the Bollywood films from the 1960s and 1970s that shockingly bombed, shocking both audiences and critics.

1. Mera Naam Joker (1970): "Mera Naam Joker" was an ambitious project that featured a star-studded cast that included Raj Kapoor himself, Simi Garewal, and Dharmendra. It was directed by the renowned showman Raj Kapoor. The circus clown who hides his sorrows behind a smile served as the central character of the movie's plot. The film's failure to connect with the audience, despite its original plot and compelling performances, contributed to its financial failure. However, it developed a cult following over time and is now regarded as one of Raj Kapoor's best pieces of art.

2. Guide (1965): Starring the illustrious Dev Anand and headed by Vijay Anand, "Guide" was a groundbreaking motion picture. The journey of a tour guide who becomes entangled in a web of love and spiritual enlightenment was depicted. Even though it won praise from critics and gained recognition abroad, "Guide" had trouble making money at the Indian box office. It has since been acknowledged as one of the most creative and provocative movies in Indian cinema history.

3. The 1960 film Mughal-e-Azam: "Mughal-e-Azam" told the enduring love story of Prince Salim and court dancer Anarkali and is regarded as one of Bollywood's greatest epics. The lavish production and memorable music of the K. Asif-directed movie, which starred Dilip Kumar, Madhubala, and Prithviraj Kapoor, were anticipated to ensure its success. Surprisingly, after its debut, it failed to have much of an effect on the box office. But "Mughal-e-Azam" is now hailed as a masterpiece of Indian cinema and an irreplaceable treasure.

4. Pakeezah (1972): Kamal Amrohi's magnum opus "Pakeezah" starred the ethereal Meena Kumari in the title role. The audience eagerly anticipated the movie, which was produced over the course of more than 14 years. Despite having opulent sets, gorgeous music, and an engrossing plot, "Pakeezah" failed to become a commercial success upon its initial release. Even so, it eventually developed a cult following and is now regarded as a timeless Bollywood classic.

5. Kaagaz Ke Phool (1959): "Kaagaz Ke Phool" was a touching story about a successful film director whose life takes a tragic turn. It was directed by the renowned director Guru Dutt. Guru Dutt and Waheeda Rehman starred in this brooding masterpiece, which was far ahead of its time but had a poor box office reception when it was first released. However, it is now praised for its cinematic genius and regarded as a milestone in Indian cinema.

6. Mera Saaya (1966): "Mera Saaya" was a suspenseful mystery thriller with a cast led by the talented Sadhana and Sunil Dutt. It was anticipated that the film's captivating plot and superb performances would guarantee its success. At the box office, it was up against stiff competition, so it did not fare as well as expected. But "Mera Saaya" is now renowned for its engrossing story and soulful music.

7. Hare Rama Hare Krishna (1971): "Hare Rama Hare Krishna" was directed by Dev Anand and tackled the touchy subject of drug abuse and the hippie movement. Zeenat Aman, who made her acting debut in the movie, gave a standout performance. Despite having an engaging theme and enduring music, the movie failed to become a box office sensation when it was first released. The fact that it connected with the youth of the time has led to its status as a cult classic.

8. Jewel Thief (1967): "Jewel Thief," a suspenseful thriller directed by Vijay Anand, starred Dev Anand, Vyjayanthimala, and Ashok Kumar. The film was anticipated to be a commercial success due to its captivating plot and captivating music by S.D. Burman. It did not, however, receive the anticipated level of acclaim during its initial run because of the intense competition it faced at the box office. It became well-known over time for its chic storyline and enduring songs.

9. Amar Prem (1972): Rajesh Khanna and Sharmila Tagore played a young boy and a courtesan, respectively, in "Amar Prem," which was directed by Shakti Samanta. The movie was not a box office hit upon release, despite its depth of emotion and heartbreaking performances. Rajesh Khanna's performance is now regarded as one of his best because it later gained a cult following.

10. Kabhi Kabhie (1976): "Kabhi Kabhie" was a multi-starrer romantic drama that starred Amitabh Bachchan, Rakhee, Shashi Kapoor, and Waheeda Rehman. It was directed by Yash Chopra. The film's lyrical poetry, uplifting soundtrack, and all-star cast raised audience expectations. It did not fare well at the box office, though, due to stiff competition from other films. However, "Kabhi Kabhie" is adored for its poetic allure and timeless love tale.

Bollywood is a surprising place, and some of the most amazing movies have had box office flops since their debut. But these films have endured, going beyond the limitations of box office success to win a special place in cinephiles' hearts. Their outstanding performances, compelling stories, and artistic brilliance have made them timeless treasures in the vault of Indian cinema, inspiring filmmakers and delighting audiences for decades. The transformation of these movies from initial apathy to enduring admiration is evidence of the enduring allure of Bollywood's cinematic legacy.

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