Aandhi (1975) was an Indian political drama film directed by Gulzar, starring Sanjeev Kumar and Suchitra Sen. Gulzar, in a brilliant casting coup, brought together two of the most respected artistes and top-notch stars of the time. The film was widely speculated to be based on the life of then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and her relationship with her estranged husband. However, while the characters' appearances were inspired by Indira Gandhi and politician Tarkeshwari Sinha, the story's focus was not directly on their lives. Instead, the plot revolved around a chance meeting between an estranged couple after many years, when Aarti Devi, now a leading politician, stays at a hotel run by her husband during an election campaign. Despite clarifications from Gulzar and his team, the film became embroiled in political controversy. Certain portions were even reshot to address the backlash. In 1975, shortly after its release, the film was banned during the National Emergency under the alleged grounds of violating the Model Election Code of Conduct, with claims that it could harm the reputation of the ruling party. The ban was further extended following the declaration of the Emergency, but it only served to make the film a national talking point. While the story is credited to Kamleshwar, the premise was largely developed by Gulzar, Kamleshwar, and Bhushan Banmali. It wasn't until 1977, after Indira Gandhi lost the national elections and the Janata Party came to power, that Gulzar admitted that the film was inspired by Gandhi. Sanjeev Kumar, too, clarified that his role's characterization was based on Feroze Gandhi. Initially, the role of Aarti Devi was offered to actress Vyjayanthimala, but she declined, citing her discomfort with the physical resemblance between her character and Indira Gandhi. Years later, Vyjayanthimala expressed regret about turning down Aandhi, alongside her other missed opportunities in Mr. and Mrs. 55 (1955) and Bandini (1963). She confessed that her admiration for Indira Gandhi made her hesitate at the time. Gulzar also mentioned that only yesteryear actress Veena, with her stateliness, would have suited the role. Another actress, Nanda, who was known for taking on challenging roles sparingly, revealed she would have gladly accepted the lead role in the film. Beyond the compelling performances by Sen and Kumar and Gulzar's delicate handling of a sensitive subject, Aandhi is celebrated for its exceptional music. The songs, composed by Rahul Dev Burman and written by Gulzar, with vocals by Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar, are unforgettable. The Lata-Kishore duets Tere Bina Zindagi Se, Is Mod Se Jate Hain, and Tum Aa Gaye Ho Noor Aa Gaya remain immortal hits, continuously adored by listeners. Though the film received several Filmfare nominations, it was only Gulzar who won the Best Film Critics Award, while Sanjeev Kumar took home the Best Actor Award.