Shah Rukh Khan, also known as the “King of Bollywood,” has an illustrious career that includes numerous iconic roles. However, as with any actor, there are projects he chose to turn down for various reasons. In retrospect, some of these decisions might have left him with a tinge of regret. Let’s take a look at some superhit movies that Shah Rukh Khan rejected. We are sure these movies will make you wonder if SRK would have done them better!
Super Hit Movies Rejected By Shah Rukh Khan
Lagaan (2001)
In 2001, Shah Rukh Khan declined the opportunity to star in Aamir Khan’s legendary sports drama, “Lagaan,” citing scheduling conflicts. The film, set during the British Raj in India, went on to achieve international acclaim and even earned an Oscar nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. Aamir Khan’s portrayal of Bhuvan became iconic, and “Lagaan” left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. Would SRK have done justice to Bhuvan? We wonder if he regrets missing such a great opportunity!
Munna Bhai M.B.B.S (2003)
The iconic comedy “Munna Bhai M.B.B.S.” in 2003 saw SRK passing on the role of Munna due to a spinal operation. This film, directed by Rajkumar Hirani, became a major hit and a cultural phenomenon in India. Sanjay Dutt’s stellar performance in the title role made it a cult classic, and it was followed by a successful sequel.
Kaho Na Pyaar Hai (2000)
In the year 2000, Shah Rukh Khan was the initial choice for the lead role in “Kaho Na…Pyaar Hai,” the launchpad for Hrithik Roshan. Shah Rukh Khan had to decline the role due to prior commitments. Hrithik’s impressive debut performance in this romantic thriller set the stage for his successful career in Bollywood.
Rang De Basanti (2006)
In 2006, Shah Rukh Khan opted out of a guest-starring role as a patriotic flight lieutenant in “Rang De Basanti.” Directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, the film explored themes of youth activism and patriotism. R. Madhavan stepped into the role, and the movie became a critical and commercial success, resonating with a generation of Indian youth.
Slumdog Millionaire (2008)
Danny Boyle’s 2008 masterpiece “Slumdog Millionaire” had SRK declining the role of the game show host Prem Kumar. Shah Rukh Khan cited his discomfort in playing a negative character and recommended Anil Kapoor for the role. The film, based on the novel “Q & A” by Vikas Swarup, won eight Oscars and became a global sensation.
Jodhaa Akbar (2008)
Hrithik Roshan’s role as Emperor Akbar in the 2008 historical epic “Jodhaa Akbar” was initially offered to Shah Rukh Khan, who declined due to concerns about the extensive historical research required for the role. Directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, the film combined grandeur with a love story and received critical acclaim.
3 Idiots (2009)
“3 Idiots,” one of the best feel-good Indian movies, initially had SRK as the first choice for the role of Rancho. However, he declined, and the role eventually went to Aamir Khan. Directed by Rajkumar Hirani, the film became a massive box-office success, highlighting issues in India’s education system while delivering a heartfelt and entertaining story.
Robot (2010)
In 2010, Shah Rukh Khan turned down the lead role in the sci-fi extravaganza “Robot” (“Enthiran” in Telugu) due to concerns about the extensive makeup and the challenging nature of the character. Directed by S. Shankar, the film featured Rajinikanth as the robotic hero Chitti, captivating audiences with its groundbreaking visual effects.
Ek Tha Tiger (2012)
In 2012, Shah Rukh Khan was initially approached for the Salman Khan-starrer “Ek Tha Tiger.” However, due to scheduling conflicts, he had to pass on the project. Interestingly, the two Khans later collaborated in “Pathaan,” which marked their first on-screen appearance together.
While Shah Rukh Khan may have rejected these films, he has continued to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of Indian cinema. His recent blockbuster, “Pathaan,” and “Jawan” reaffirms his enduring popularity and versatility as an actor.
Do you think SRK could have done any of these better than the actors who eventually took the roles? Tell us in the comments below.