Even in the uncertain Hindi film industry, the largest stars can sometimes err in estimating how well a script will do. In the course of the years, a number of classic movies were rejected by the traditional actors, only to make a huge commercial and critical hit with a different person in the role. What these stories demonstrate is how timing, instinct and casting decisions can change careers and rewrite box office history in a way that no one would have expected.
Dil Se
At the time when Dil Se.. was being written by Mani Ratnam, the passionate romantic film is said to have met reluctance due to some prominent men then, but this was when Shah Rukh Khan intervened. The film had a heartfelt touch and desperation with his roles as a passionate radio journalist opposite Manisha Koirala. Although these were not conventional in mainstream cinema back then, it became extremely popular and later acquired cult status.
Lagaan Triumph
Lagaan was a risky period film revolving around cricket and colonial resistance, which was regarded as commercially risky by many. Aamir Khan also accepted to play the lead role and produced the movie making it one of the most celebrated successes of Indian cinema. The fact that it received an Oscar nomination and acclaim all over the world demonstrated that unconventional storytelling can overcome initial skepticism.
Chak De
Before Chak De! India turned out to be a quintessential sports drama, some of the stars even admit that they were not sure whether they wanted to play a convicted hockey coach. Shah Rukh Khan took up the challenge and gave a subtle, overwhelming performance that found a nationwide appreciation. This patriotic theme and spirit of the underdog that was revealed in the film made it a lasting favorite.
Munna Bhai
Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. is a heartwarming comedy which was not an automatic choice of any leading actor in the era. Sanjay Dutt later added the warmth and the genuineness to the lovable gangster-turned-medical student. It was a success that spawned a franchise and reinvented mainstream comedy with a strong social point.
Dilwale Dulhania
Not many could have imagined that this would be the case with Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge becoming one of the longest movies in the history of Indian cinema. Shah Rukh Khan was reportedly offered the role after other actors had reportedly turned down the part but he took up the role and became a symbolic figure as Raj. The movie redefined the genre of the romantic narration and established its role as a historic milestone.
Queen Success
Queen focused on one of those young women realizing that she could be independent, a theme not viewed as a sure box office hit. Kangana Ranaut has taken up this role and has performed well to win the awards and impress the audience. The commercial success of the film was an unforeseen event, and it marked the beginning of more powerful female-centered stories.
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