SRK was a better choice: Imran on turning down ‘Chennai Express’
The world of Bollywood is filled with what-ifs and maybes, and one of the most intriguing stories to emerge recently is that of Imran Khan turning down the lead role in the 2013 blockbuster film ‘Chennai Express’. In a recent interview, Imran Khan revealed that he had been approached by director Rohit Shetty to play the lead role in the film, but he ultimately decided to step away due to a creative mismatch.
For those who may not be aware, ‘Chennai Express’ is a romantic comedy film that stars Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone in the lead roles. The film was a massive commercial success, grossing over Rs 400 crore at the box office and becoming one of the highest-grossing Bollywood films of all time. However, it seems that Imran Khan was initially considered for the lead role, and it’s interesting to think about how the film would have turned out if he had accepted the offer.
According to Imran Khan, he had a meeting with Rohit Shetty to discuss the film, but he didn’t feel like he was the right fit for the role. “I don’t think I was right for it,” he said in an interview. “I said, ‘Listen, I don’t see us syncing’.” It’s clear that Imran Khan had a strong intuition about the film, and he didn’t want to take on a project that he didn’t feel passionate about.
It’s worth noting that Imran Khan has always been known for his selective approach to choosing films. He has been a part of several successful films like ‘Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na’, ‘I Hate Luv Storys’, and ‘Delhi Belly’, but he has also been quite choosy about the roles he takes on. This approach has earned him a reputation as a thoughtful and deliberate actor, and it’s clear that he values his artistic integrity above all else.
In contrast, Shah Rukh Khan is known for his versatility and willingness to take on a wide range of roles. He has been a part of countless films over the years, and he has proven himself to be one of the most bankable stars in Bollywood. It’s no surprise that Rohit Shetty ultimately decided to cast him in ‘Chennai Express’, and the film’s success is a testament to the fact that SRK was indeed the right choice for the role.
Imran Khan himself seems to agree that SRK was a better fit for the film. “Shah Rukh Khan was a better choice,” he said. “I don’t think I could top Shah Rukh.” This kind of humility and self-awareness is rare in the entertainment industry, and it’s a testament to Imran Khan’s character that he is willing to acknowledge when someone else might be a better fit for a particular role.
In hindsight, it’s interesting to think about how ‘Chennai Express’ would have turned out if Imran Khan had accepted the lead role. Would the film have been as successful with him at the helm? It’s impossible to say for sure, but it’s clear that Imran Khan made the right decision for himself. By stepping away from the film, he was able to maintain his artistic integrity and focus on projects that truly resonated with him.
As for Rohit Shetty, it’s clear that he made the right decision in casting Shah Rukh Khan in ‘Chennai Express’. The film’s success is a testament to the fact that SRK was the right choice for the role, and it’s a reminder that sometimes, the best decisions are the ones that don’t always work out as planned.
In conclusion, Imran Khan’s decision to turn down ‘Chennai Express’ is a fascinating footnote in the history of Bollywood. It’s a reminder that even the most talented actors can have doubts and uncertainties, and it’s a testament to the fact that sometimes, the best decisions are the ones that don’t always work out as planned. As for SRK, he proved once again why he is one of the most beloved and respected actors in Bollywood.
About the Author
