Aamir Khan’s portrayal of Sanjay Singhania in the 2008 psychological thriller Ghajini remains one of his most iconic performances. But did you know the role could have gone to a completely different actor? Pradeep Rawat, who played the antagonist in the film, recently revealed some surprising facts about the casting process.
Salman Khan: The Initial Choice
According to Rawat, director A.R. Murugadoss initially envisioned Salman Khan for the lead role. Murugadoss, a relatively new director at the time, was impressed by Salman’s intense screen presence and believed it would suit the character’s vengeful nature. However, Rawat, who had previously worked with both Aamir and Salman, expressed reservations.
Why Salman Wasn’t Right for Ghajini
Rawat felt Salman’s temperament wouldn’t mesh well with Murugadoss’s directing style. He highlighted Salman’s strong personality and potential for communication issues, considering Murugadoss’s limited English and Hindi fluency at the time.
Recommending Aamir Khan: The Perfect Fit
Pradeep Rawat, on the other hand, championed Aamir Khan for the role. He emphasized Aamir’s calm demeanor, respectful nature, and dedication to his craft. Rawat believed Aamir’s ability to embody complex characters and collaborate effectively would be invaluable for Ghajini.
Aamir’s Hesitation and Eventual Acceptance
While Aamir Khan was initially hesitant to take on a remake, Rawat’s persuasion and his own viewing of the Tamil original convinced him. He reportedly agreed to the project not out of obligation, but because he genuinely connected with the character and the story.
The Legacy of Ghajini
Ghajini’s success cemented Aamir Khan’s reputation as a powerhouse performer. The film’s unique narrative, action sequences, and Aamir’s portrayal of a man with short-term memory loss resonated deeply with audiences. It became one of the highest-grossing Bollywood films of all time and continues to be a cult classic.