9 Bollywood actresses who turned down iconic movie roles

Jul 9, 2024

CELEB LOOKS

Saradha Natarajan

Twinkle Khanna for Tina in 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai' (1998)

This Karan Johar coming-of-age romantic drama launched the career of Kajol. Twinkle Khanna reportedly turned down the role as she was dating Akshay Kumar at the time and he didn't want her to work with other actors.

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​Aishwarya Rai Bachchan for Mastani in 'Bajirao Mastani' (2015)

This Sanjay Leela Bhansali historical romance film eventually went to Deepika Padukone and became another massive hit for her. Aishwarya reportedly turned down the role due to scheduling conflicts.

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Rani Mukerji for Shalini in 'Dil Chahta Hai' (2001)

This coming-of-age film is considered a cult classic and established the careers of Aamir Khan, Saif Ali Khan, and Akshaye Khanna. Rani reportedly turned down the role as she didn't find it substantial enough.

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​Priyanka Chopra for Sonia in 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham' (2001)

This Karan Johar family drama went on to become the highest-grossing Bollywood film of the year. Priyanka reportedly turned down the role as she was a newcomer at the time.

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​Preity Zinta for Reena in 'Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein' (2001)

This romantic thriller became a cult classic and launched Dia Mirza's career. Preity reportedly turned down the role due to date issues.

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​Sonam Kapoor for Shantipriya in 'Om Shanti Om' (2007)

This reincarnation comedy film launched Deepika Padukone's career in Bollywood. Sonam reportedly turned down the role as she didn't like the script.

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​Anushka Sharma for Tara in 'Tamasha' (2015)

This Imtiaz Ali romantic drama established Deepika Padukone as a leading actress. Anushka reportedly turned down the role due to scheduling conflicts.

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​Kareena Kapoor Khan for Leela in 'Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela' (2013)

This Sanjay Leela Bhansali's epic love story became a massive hit and established Deepika Padukone as a top actress. Kareena reportedly turned down the role due to the intimate scenes.

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2​Kangana Ranaut for Silk Smitha in 'The Dirty Picture' (2011)

This biographical drama about a controversial South Indian actress earned Vidya Balan a National Film Award. Kangana reportedly felt the role was too bold for her at that time in her career.

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