Aishwarya Rai has turned a year older today (November 1), and fans have extended their heartfelt birthday wishes to the actress. She is undoubtedly one of the most popular actresses in India and has inspired many women across the world. From Jodha Akbar to Devdas, Aishwarya has always managed to mesmerise the audience with stellar performances. But do you know she has rejected many popular movies as well, which went on to become iconic and became a huge milestone for other Bollywood stars.
Raja Hindustani
Initially, Raja Hindustani was offered to Aishwarya Rai, but she rejected the film to participate in Miss India. If she had accepted the offer, it would have been her first film. The role later went to Karisma Kapoor, becoming one of her most successful films.
Bhool Bhulaiyaa
It has been rumoured that filmmaker Priyadarshan first offered the dual roles of Avni and Manjulika to Aishwarya. But she rejected the offer and the role went to Vidya Balan, who won hearts with her hauntingly beautiful performance.
Munna Bhai MBBS
Filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani reportedly narrated the script of Munna Bhai MBBS, but the role went on to Gracy Singh. It is regarded as one of the best films of Gracy’s career.
Kuch Kuch Hota Hai
Kuch Kuch Hota Hai was also offered to Aishwarya, but she rejected the film. Revealing the reason behind her rejection, she earlier told Filmfare, “If I’d done the film, it would have been tittered that, ‘Look, Aishwarya Rai is back to doing what she did in her modelling days—leaving her hair straight, wearing minis, and pouting glamorously into the camera.’ Ultimately, the hero goes back to the more real person. I know if I’d done Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, I would have been lynched.”
Kabhi Khushi Khabhie Gham
Karan Johar reportedly offered Aishwarya Rai the role of Anjali in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. He believed that Kajol would not be available for the role. However, in the end, Kajol took the role, and her chemistry with Shah Rukh Khan was the highlight of the film.
