New Delhi, Dec 19: In the film industry, choosing the right script is as important as talent and skill. Sometimes actors turn down roles in film due to personal reasons, scheduling differences, creative differences, or on the advice of people close to them.

While some decisions work in their favour, others become missed opportunities wherein the future the film becomes a massive success. Bollywood is full of history where someone turned down a role, and it later became iconic and career-defining for someone else.

This article looks at some well-known Bollywood actors who rejected roles that could have significantly changed the direction of their careers.

1. Saif Ali Khan — Dil Wale Dulhaniya Le Jaenge (1995)

Saif Ali Khan was reportedly offered the role of Raj Malhotra in DDLJ, which later went to Shah Rukh Khan. At that time, Saif declined the role because he was still shaping his career and wasn't confident about playing such a romantic lead. DDLJ became one of the biggest blockbusters in Indian cinema and turned Shah Rukh Khan into the "King of Romance."

2. Twinkle Khanna — Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998)

Twinkle Khanna was initially approached for the role of Tina Malhotra in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. However, she turned it down, and the filmmakers offered it to Rani Mukherji, whose performance was widely appreciated. The film became a cult classic, and the role played a major part in strengthening Rani's position in Bollywood.

3. Hrithik Roshan — Dil Chahta Hai (2001) and 3 Idiots (2009)

Hrithik Roshan was reportedly offered roles in both Dil Chahta Hai and 3 Idiots but could not take them up due to date issues and other commitments. These films later became landmark movies in Bollywood, especially among youth audiences. While Hrithik has had a successful career, being part of such iconic films could have added different dimensions to his filmography.

4. Vivek Oberoi — Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. (2003)

Vivek Oberoi was offered the role of Murli Prasad Sharma alias Munna in Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. but chose not to accept it due to date clashes, as he was unable to adjust his schedule. The role was later offered to Sanjay Dutt, whose performance became iconic and revived his career immensely. The film was both a commercial and critical success.

 5. Sonam Kapoor — Om Shanti Om (2007)

Sonam Kapoor was reportedly offered the role of the female lead — Shantipriya — of the film Om Shanti Om, which she declined, as she was still preparing for her debut. The character was later played by Deepika Padukone. The performance splendidly introduced Deepika to Bollywood as well as Indian cine fans. The film's huge success instantly made Deepika an overnight star.

6. Akshay Kumar — Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013)

Akshay Kumar was initially considered for the role of Milkha Singh in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. However, he chose not to take up the project, and the role eventually went to Farhan Akhtar. The film was critically acclaimed and praised for its strong performance and inspiring storyline. Farhan's portrayal of Milkha Singh won him national and international recognition.

7. Parineeti Chopra — Piku (2015)

Parineeti Chopra rejected the role of Rana Chaudhary's love interest in Piku, which was later played by Deepika Padukone. Parineeti felt the role was not substantial for her at that time. However, Piku became a highly praised film, and Deepika's performance showcased her versatility as an actor.


(By Aditi Majhi)