Manoj Kumar was in awe of Mala Sinha because she was a big star when they were making the film. But she was not very friendly. She would sit and watch all his shots, then correct him afterwards. This would irritate Manoj Kumar and he was hoping she would just leave him alone. One day Mala Sinha's father met Manoj and told him that Mala Sinha was praising him. This made Manoj realize that Mala Sinha was only trying to help him. After that Manoj loosened up and was able to start a friendship with Mala Sinha.
Rajendra Kumar was the original choice for the lead role.
The original title was "Shobhna".
Om Prakash at that time felt sorry for Manoj. In one meeting with Manoj Kumar, the veteran actor told him, "You are so good-looking and you also act well, it's a pity that your films are not doing well." Saying this, Om Prakash advised Manoj to visit Haji Malang, a pilgrim place near Bombay. Manoj Kumar heeded Om Prakash's advice and went to pray at Haji Malang. He recalled the long uphill walk to the dargah where he prayed for success. When he was climbing downhill, he heard a voice from behind him, which said, "Jaa, ikattees tareekh ko milenge." He turned around and saw and old man dressed in clean white clothes and with a flowing white beard. Although he was standing where many beggars were stationed, Manoj Kumar recalled that he didn't look like a fakir. When the unsuccessful actor asked him what he meant to say, the man in white replied, "You will taste success from 31st." The premiere of Manoj Kumar starrer Hariyali Aur Raasta was held on 31st of that month and, sure enough, Manoj had the first taste of success with that film and how! Hariyali Aur Raasta proved a silver jubilee hit and from there began the success story of Manoj Kumar. The successful actor went to Haji Malang on many occasions after that "but," he says ruefully, "I never saw that man in white ever again."