Bollywood is a dreamland not just for those viewing but also for those performing in it. Every blockbuster success and legendary performance, however, conceals a narrative of “what could have been.” Over time, many A-list performers have turned down roles that could have changed the game for others.
From uncertainty and calendar conflicts to simply a “gut feeling,” these choices have influenced careers, sometimes for good… and occasionally for remorse. From the perspective of Bollywood, where stars turned down offers, let’s examine few of the most startling casting decisions.
Salman Khan Turned down Chak De! India
One finds it difficult to picture anyone else Shah Rukh Khan portrays the passionate and inspiring teacher Kabir Khan in Chak De! India (2007). However, did you know that Salman Khan received an initial offer for the role? Salman reportedly believed the movie didn’t align with his image at the time and was excessively serious.
SRK took it on, and the film became a cultural hit, with the character being one of his best roles.
Kareena Kapoor Khan Turned down Kal Ho Naa Ho.
It was meant to be Kareena Kapoor Khan performing the part before Preity Zinta won hearts as Naina. Kareena withdrew, though, because of pay disparity.
Karan Johar himself later stated he was devastated by her choice. Preity was fortunate; Kal Ho Naa Ho turned out to be a career-defining event; Kareena has said in interviews that she lamented losing it.
Hrithik Roshan rejected Dil Chahta Hai.
Hrithik Roshan was offered the part of Akash before Aamir Khan joined the Dil Chahta Hai three. Hrithik said he didn’t connect with the role at the time.
Imagine how different the tone of the movie would have been! Hrithik’s career experienced other significant swings, but Aamir’s calm and carefree Akash remained one of his most cherished parts.
Twinkle Khanna Kuch Kuch Hota Hai passed on
Tina in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai was nearly played by Twinkle Khanna!
Karan Johar created the part with her in mind, even giving the character her name. Twinkle turned down the invitation, doubtful of the screenplay.
Rani Mukerji made her way into prominence by winning accolades, hearts, and recognition with her performance as Tina.
Ranbir Kapoor Declined Band Baaja Baaraat
The part of Bittoo Sharma was given to Ranbir Kapoor before Ranveer Singh exploded onto the stage with his stunning first in Band Baaja Baaraat. He turned down the assignment, allegedly uninterested in doing another romance picture following Saawariya.
Ranveer’s first performance not only changed his career but also provided Bollywood with one of its most interesting stars.
Kangana Ranaut rejected The Dirty Picture.
Though she rejected it owing to other obligations, Kangana was among the first picks for The Dirty Picture. Vidya Balan, who delivered a strong performance that won her a National Award and cult fame, took on the part of Silk.
Kangana later said she liked the movie and Vidya’s audacious decision.
Shah Rukh Khan seven Turned down Lagaan
Believe it or not, Ashutosh Gowariker first contacted Shah Rukh Khan for Lagaan. SRK, however, was unsure of the idea of a cricket-based historical drama and respectfully declined.
Aamir Khan took it up; Lagaan eventually became a landmark in Indian cinema and was nominated for an Oscar.
Last Take.
Bollywood is erratic; one “no” could be another’s golden “yes.” Although these celebrities may have had their motivations, it is amazing to reflect back and see how various these classic movies could have ended out.
Who knows what more near-misses and almosts lurk in Bollywood’s casting choice vault?
At times, fate has its own casting director.
