Blockbusters SRK let slip: 8 films that found superstardom without the King of Bollywood!
Shah Rukh Khan is the undisputed King of Bollywood, yet even kings make decisions they later regret. Over the years, SRK has turned down scripts that have become major box-office successes starring other actors. Here are several projects he declined but that went on to become massive hits!
What if SRK had romanced Ameesha Patel instead of Hrithik?
Rakesh Roshan's initial choice was SRK, but Hrithik recommended his father to opt for a fresh face. The film quickly became a hit and earned ₹44.10 crore in 2000.
Lagaan made history and almost brought home an Oscar!
SRK declined the role of Bhuvan, which was later given to Aamir Khan. The Oscar-nominated film grossed ₹65.97 crore globally, ranking amongst the highest-grossing films of the year.
Imagine SRK saying “Jadoo ki Jhappi”! But fate had other plans!
SRK's poor health led him to decline Munna Bhai. Later, Sanjay Dutt took over, and the film earned ₹33 crore and became a cult classic.
SRK as a fighter pilot? That was the plan! Instead, R. Madhavan’s role became unforgettable!
SRK was offered the role of Flight Lieutenant Ajay Singh Rathod, ultimately portrayed by R. Madhavan. The film grossed ₹1.36 billion (US$16 million) worldwide.
What if SRK had played Emperor Akbar?
Ashutosh Gowariker wanted King Khan to portray Samrat Akbar, but he declined due to concerns about the filming location. After Hrithik Roshan took over, the film grossed ₹77.85 crore ($20.82 million) in India.
Anil Kapoor stole the show as Prem Kumar in this Oscar-winning film!
Shah Rukh Khan was the initial choice for the quiz master role, but he declined. Anil Kapoor accepted the role, and the film grossed $378 million worldwide, winning eight Oscars!
"Aal Izz Well," but was it for SRK?
SRK was initially cast as Rancho but withdrew due to scheduling conflicts. With Aamir Khan in the lead role, the film earned ₹201.37 crore in India alone.
SRK wanted his own VFX studio to handle the CGI
SRK withdrew due to creative differences with director S. Shankar. Once Rajinikanth stepped in, the film grossed ₹250-320 crore (US$41.46 million) at the box office.
Who would have thought that SRK's rejections would lead to some of Bollywood's most remarkable successes? Would these films have turned out the same with him in the lead role?
