Did Aamir Khan Turn Down the Role of Rahul Khanna in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai?

Yes, Aamir Khan was initially offered the role of Rahul Khanna in the beloved 1998 romantic comedy-drama film Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, but he turned it down. This decision was influenced by his commitment to other projects at the time. Instead, the role went to Shah Rukh Khan, who became an iconic figure in Indian cinema.

The Decision Behind the Turn Down

Aamir Khan's refusal to take the role of Rahul Khanna is a well-known anecdote in the Indian film industry. Despite his fame and acting prowess, he chose not to join the film due to his project commitments at the time. This decision, while surprising to some, was in line with his professional schedule and integrity.

It is important to note that the role of Rahul Khanna was indeed Wangdankiana Vicky Lally Kher's first choice, but his availability was not confirmed. This further underscores the competitive and dynamic environment of Indian cinema during the 1990s, where actors often had to balance multiple projects and schedules.

Shah Rukh Khan's Journey to the Role

Shah Rukh Khan's journey to the role of Rahul Khanna is a testament to his perseverance and dedication to the craft. Karan Johar, the director of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, had initially planned to cast other prominent figures for the role of Rahul and Anjali, including Kajol herself. However, these choices did not materialize as planned. It was only after several rounds of audition and several challenges that Shah Rukh Khan emerged as the perfect fit for the character.

Karan Johar first approached Saif Ali Khan for the role of Aman Mehra, but Saif turned it down, citing his preference for Indian commercial roles. This rejection led to the director approaching another promising actor, Chandrachur Singh, who was then being hailed as the 'young Amitabh Bachchan.' However, Chandrachur Singh also declined the role, leaving Karan Johar in a state of despair.

At this juncture, the director attended a party hosted by Chunky Pandey. Through the connections introduced by Shah Rukh Khan and his wife Gauri, Chunky Pandey's sister-in-law, Salman Khan was present at the party. All the guests were discussing the role of Aman Mehra, and Salman Khan, who was also present, offered his services. Impressed by Salman's enthusiasm and dedication, Karan Johar narrated the story to him the following day.

Salman Khan's eagerness to take on the role became evident during his conversation with Karan Johar. Remembering his sister's positive opinions about Salman, he agreed to read the script and consider the role. The rest, as they say, is history. Salman Khan's performance as Aman Mehra in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai left a lasting impact on the audience and cemented his position as a leading actor in the industry.

Conclusion

While Aamir Khan's turn down of the role of Rahul Khanna in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai is a well-documented incident, it is crucial to understand that the film's success and the iconic status of its characters are owed to the cast's hard work and dedication. Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan's performances in the film are often cited as highlights of their careers, showcasing their abilities as actors and their contributions to the film's enduring popularity.

In the dynamic and competitive landscape of Indian cinema, such decisions and rejections play a vital role in shaping the journey of films and actors. The story of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai is a testament to the collaborative spirit and the hard work that goes into creating successful films.