Deepak Tijori reveals he was asked to teach Hindi to Rahul Roy during Aashiqui: ‘I take care of him like he’s my baby…’ |
More than three decades after Aashiqui became a musical milestone in Bollywood, actor Deepak Tijori has opened up about the real bond that blossomed behind the scenes. In a heartfelt recollection, Tijori revealed how director Mahesh Bhatt entrusted him with helping a then-newcomer Rahul Roy—guiding him through language hurdles, personal struggles, and the emotional rollercoaster of fame.
A reunion full of nostalgia
While looking at an old photo of himself with Rahul Roy, Deepak fondly recalled in an interview with Bollywood Bubble, their surprise reunion on The Kapil Sharma Show, celebrating 30 years of Aashiqui. At the time, Tijori hadn’t planned on returning to acting—he was still focused on directing—but the gathering stirred deep nostalgia. He shared that the moment brought back a flood of memories and that he’s remained close to both Rahul Roy and Pooja Bhatt over the years.
A bond beyond the screen
He went on to express his deep affection for Rahul Roy, calling him “like a baby” he still looks after with care. Despite Roy’s health challenges in recent years, Tijori said their bond remains unshakable, describing it as the “real Aashiqui.” He shared that Mahesh Bhatt had entrusted him with guiding Roy during the filming, as Tijori had already faced life’s struggles, while Roy was a newcomer from the modelling world. Their off-screen brotherhood, he added, was as genuine as the love story depicted in the film.
Helping Rahul Roy find his voice
Deepak fondly recalled how, during the filming of Aashiqui, he was often tasked with helping Rahul polish his Hindi. Coming from a modelling background, Roy’s Punjabi-tinged Hindi needed work, and Mahesh Bhatt would ask Tijori to “take him to the corner” and help him get the dialogues right. This mentorship turned into a deep friendship, with Roy often confiding in Tijori about his personal life. Their behind-the-scenes camaraderie, built on trust and laughter, made their connection truly special. “He was always like a baby to me,” Tijori concluded.Aashiqui, released in 1990, is a landmark Indian musical romantic drama directed by Mahesh Bhatt. Starring Rahul Roy, Anu Aggarwal, and Deepak Tijori, the film marked the beginning of the Aashiqui franchise. Renowned for its unforgettable soundtrack, the film catapulted music composer duo Nadeem–Shravan, singer Kumar Sanu, and the music label T-Series to national fame, setting a new benchmark for Bollywood music-driven romances.
