While it's difficult to imagine anyone else as Vicky now, the makers of 'Stree' had initially approached a different actor for the role.
Ever wondered why 'Stree' (2018) became such a humongous success? Of course, there are multiple reasons. But the one thing that set the horror comedy apart was that it had its soul in the right place. There was a remarkable honesty in its storytelling, and hence it never became preachy despite being a social commentary. All the characters felt genuine, making us feel like a part of their journey. And at the center of all was Rajkummar Rao as Vicky 'Pleej' who not only saved Chanderi but also won our hearts with his magnetic presence!
The Trio of ‘Stree’ Universe
Well, the Chanderi gang is coming back with 'Stree 2' after over six years, and we simply cannot keep calm! Going by its trailer and the songs, the narrative this time seems even bigger, more humorous, and a lot more adventurous! And the film has already set the box office on fire with its advance booking, with many estimating it could rake in a whopping ₹30-35 crore on the opening day.
As we gear up to watch 'Stree 2' on the big screen this Independence Day, let's learn an interesting fact about it that many don't know.
Rajkummar Rao had mostly done serious roles (in films like 'Aligarh', 'Shahid', and 'Trapped' among others) before 'Stree'. The only exception was 'Bareilly Ki Barfi' where his comedic prowess was showcased. However, 'Stree' was his most mainstream film at that time, emerging as a game-changer in his career. It showcased a different facet of his acting chops and catapulted him to unprecedented stardom in no time.
The National Award-winning actor's work in 'Stree' continues to be a fan favorite. However, what may come as a surprise to many is that he wasn't the first choice for his role, Vicky, in the franchise. Yes, you read that right!
The makers had actually approached Vicky Kaushal for the role. This was before 'Uri: The Surgical Strike’ happened that made Kaushal an A-lister.
Of course, any actor would love to be a part of a film like 'Stree'. Then why did Kaushal turn it down? It's because he was occupied shooting for 'Manmarziyaan' at that time.
During his appearance at Neha Dhupia's talk show, Kaushal revealed that he had absolutely loved the script of 'Stree', and was extremely keen on doing it. However, he couldn't proceed due to date issues with 'Manmarziyaan'.
Vicky Kaushal in Manmarziyaan > Vicky Kaushal in Bad Newz pic.twitter.com/UFi8FF49pQ
— 5ocial (@5ocialOfficial) July 21, 2024
Credit: 5ocial
And then Rajkummar Rao came into the scene. And the rest, as they say, is history!
'Stree' is not the only blockbuster that Vicky Kaushal has rejected in his career. The list also includes films like 'Bhaag Milkha Bhaag', '83', and 'Jab Tak Hai Jaan'. In fact, he rejected 'Uri' initially, and later changed his mind on his father's suggestions.
The franchise's storyline is based on the urban legend of Nale Ba, which means "come tomorrow" in Kannada.
The 2018 film's title was 'O Stree Kal Aana' initially. It was Rajkummar Rao who suggested the title 'Stree' when the story was being narrated to him by Raj & DK.
To play his role with conviction, Rao actually learned tailoring from a professional tailor. Besides, he took inspiration from a bus conductor in Haryana for the role.
'Stree 2' has been highly anticipated ever since it was announced. And now, with one day left until its release, the excitement surrounding the film has reached absolutely sky-high among fans!
