Bollywood’s Biggest Casting What-Ifs: Actresses Who Rejected Iconic Roles

Twinkle Khanna in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Anushka Sharma in Tamasha - Actresses Who Rejected Iconic Roles.

In Bollywood, an actor's career path can be altered by a single casting choice. Even though some roles seem a perfect fit for certain celebrities, many actresses have rejected roles that later became iconic. These missed opportunities led to other actresses delivering performances that defined their careers, whether due to scheduling conflicts, artistic differences, or personal preferences. Here are some of the most famous rejections in Bollywood history.
1. Twinkle Khanna – Tina in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai
Twinkle Khanna was initially set to play Tina, the attractive and charming college student, in Karan Johar's cult classic Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. However, she declined the role, reportedly because her then-boyfriend, Akshay Kumar, did not want her to star in a romantic film. Rani Mukerji ultimately took on the role.
2. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan – Mastani in Bajirao Mastani

Aishwarya Rai was originally considered to play Mastani in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's magnum opus Bajirao Mastani. However, she turned it down due to scheduling conflicts and the challenge of finding a suitable Bajirao to play opposite her. Deepika Padukone later took on the role and delivered one of her most mesmerizing performances to date.
3. Rani Mukerji – Shalini in Dil Chahta Hai
The role of Shalini in Dil Chahta Hai, a film that revolutionized modern Bollywood storytelling, was initially offered to Rani Mukerji. However, she rejected it as she felt the character lacked depth. Eventually, Preity Zinta portrayed Shalini, and her effortless chemistry with Aamir Khan was well received.
4. Priyanka Chopra – Sonia in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham
Before achieving widespread fame, Priyanka Chopra was considered for the role of Sonia, Hrithik Roshan's love interest in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. She turned down the offer as she was still a newcomer, and Kareena Kapoor Khan eventually took on the role, making "Poo" one of the most iconic characters in Bollywood.
5. Preity Zinta – Reena in Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein
Preity Zinta was the first choice for the role of Reena in Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein. However, she opted out due to prior commitments, allowing Dia Mirza to make her Bollywood debut. Reena remains one of Dia’s most beloved characters, and the film has since gained cult status.
6. Sonam Kapoor – Shantipriya in Om Shanti Om
Sonam Kapoor was initially considered for the dual roles of Sandy and Shantipriya in Om Shanti Om. However, she reportedly backed out as she was not convinced by the script. This paved the way for Deepika Padukone’s spectacular Bollywood debut, and as they say, the rest is history.
7. Anushka Sharma – Tara in Tamasha
Anushka Sharma was approached to play Tara, the strong and independent female lead in Tamasha. Unfortunately, she declined the role due to scheduling conflicts. The character was ultimately played by Deepika Padukone, who delivered a nuanced performance that resonated emotionally with audiences.
8. Kareena Kapoor Khan – Leela in Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela
Kareena Kapoor Khan was originally cast as Leela in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela. However, she turned down the role as she felt uncomfortable with the film’s bold storyline and intimate scenes. Deepika Padukone eventually took on the role, delivering one of her most acclaimed performances.