It’s been 25 years since Hrithik Roshan made his explosive Bollywood debut with Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai. The film turned into an overnight sensation, cementing Hrithik’s place as one of Bollywood’s brightest stars. His double role as Rohit and Raj became iconic, and his chemistry with Ameesha Patel was unforgettable. But did you know Kareena Kapoor was the first choice to play Sonia? Let’s dig into what really happened.
For years, fans have speculated about why Kareena didn’t star in the film. Initially, rumors suggested that she walked out because of creative differences. The spotlight was often on her mother, Babita Kapoor, who allegedly had disagreements with Rakesh Roshan. However, Ameesha Patel’s candid interview years later shed some new light on the situation.
In a conversation with Bollywood Bubble, Ameesha shared her version of events. She claimed Kareena didn’t leave the project willingly but was asked to step aside. “From what Rakesh ji told me, they were having differences, and he had to ask her to leave,” Ameesha revealed. She joined the cast just three days after Kareena’s exit.
Rakesh Roshan’s silence on the matter has only fueled speculation over the years. In previous interviews, he hinted that Babita’s involvement in the project became an issue. Reports at the time suggested she wanted more control over Kareena’s role and the overall production, which didn’t sit well with Rakesh. Though he never publicly stated this, it was clear something wasn’t working behind the scenes.
Kareena’s exit might have been a turning point for Ameesha Patel. She was fresh in the industry and had no prior acting experience. Despite this, she held her own opposite Hrithik, who was already creating waves with his acting and dance skills. Their pairing clicked with the audience instantly, and the movie went on to become a blockbuster.
Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai was released in January 2000 and took the box office by storm. Hrithik’s performances as both the shy Rohit and the confident Raj won hearts everywhere. The music by Rajesh Roshan became a sensation, with songs like “Ek Pal Ka Jeena” and “Na Tum Jaano Na Hum” still loved today.
On the other hand, Kareena made her debut later the same year with Refugee, alongside Abhishek Bachchan. While her performance was appreciated, the film didn’t reach the same heights as Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai. Many wondered if things would have been different had she stayed in the project.
Even 25 years later, the “what if” surrounding Kareena’s role in Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai sparks curiosity. Did she miss out on a golden opportunity, or was it all meant to be? Either way, the film’s legacy remains intact, with Hrithik and Ameesha’s debut etched in Bollywood history.
What do you think about Kareena Kapoor’s exit from the film? Would the movie have been different with her in it? Let us know your thoughts!
