27 Years Ago, This Character Betrayed Anakin Skywalker in Star Wars Episode 1!

In 1999, Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace introduced us to Anakin Skywalker, who managed to escape slavery by winning the podrace, spurred on by Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn. We already know that he left his mother, Shmi Skywalker, behind, though a quick swipe of a lightsaber could have solved that issue. But that’s another story!

Left Behind on Tatooine!

What’s less known is that Anakin didn’t even spare a glance or a word for one of his most loyal friends, a young mechanic named Kitster Banai, portrayed by Dhruv Chanchani. Kitster worked on Anakin’s pod to ensure its top performance.

After crossing the finish line, Anakin celebrates his victory with Qui-Gon, quickly bids farewell to his mother, and doesn’t think to thank his best buddy, who without him, Anakin might not have gained his freedom.

He boards his Jedi master’s ship without even trying to rescue his friend, who remains enslaved on Tatooine. What an ungrateful act from Anakin! The dark side of the Force must have been creeping into him already!

Regardless, Kitster Banai was left behind on the desert planet like an old sock by Anakin, and he was never seen again. This role remains the only film appearance of Dhruv Chanchani, who is now 38 years old. Even the biggest Star Wars fans have likely forgotten this character, unfairly left behind. It’s high time we paid him a well-deserved tribute!

The Force is Strong in Him

To recall, the story of The Phantom Menace presents us with Anakin Skywalker. Before his name became synonymous with legend or threat, he was just a child chained under the scorching sun of Tatooine. A slave, yes, but already filled with an extraordinary power. The Force within him was untamable, and on the deadly podracing tracks, he defied death with almost supernatural bravery.

When Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn crossed his path, he saw not just a boy, but sensed a monumental destiny, perhaps that of the Chosen One. As this future began to awaken, the galaxy was trembling. The Trade Federation, greedy and ruthless, deployed its droid armies to crush Naboo, a peaceful planet caught in a dark political vortex.

Behind this invasion was an even more sinister plot: the shadow of the Sith stretching out, ready to seize power. To protect Queen Amidala and counter this growing threat, the Jedi took action.

Lightsabers in hand, they stood against a terrifying enemy: Darth Maul, the embodiment of hatred and vengeance. The confrontation was inevitable, and in the heart of this storm, Anakin’s destiny began to unfold—between blinding light and profound darkness.

AlloCiné, your daily source for over 40 articles on cinema and TV series news, interviews, streaming recommendations, and quirky cinephile facts about your favorite movies and series. Subscribe to AlloCiné on Google Discover, and you’re sure to explore the riches of a site created by enthusiasts for enthusiasts every day.