In a surprising turn of events, Shah Rukh Khan, was the original choice for the lead role in the iconic film Sarfarosh. Despite initial plans to cast the “King of Bollywood,” the role eventually went to Aamir Khan, altering the trajectory of both the film and Khan’s career. Released in 1999, Sarfarosh quickly rose to become a cult classic, lauded for its compelling narrative and memorable music. The film played a pivotal role in shaping Aamir Khan’s career, catapulting him into the upper echelons of the Indian film industry.
Director John Matthew Matthan revealed in an interview with Indian Express that the initial preference for the lead role leaned heavily towards Shah Rukh Khan. However, circumstances surrounding the film’s financing led to a shift in casting decisions. Manmohan Shetty, the owner of Adlabs, had previously backed two Shah Rukh Khan starrers, namely Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa and English Babu Desi Mem. Shetty advocated for Shah Rukh’s inclusion in Sarfarosh, citing financial considerations and the opportunity for a lucrative partnership. Despite Shetty’s insistence, John Matthew Matthan remained resolute in his conviction that Shah Rukh Khan was ill-suited for the role, both in terms of character portrayal and thematic fit.
Matthan’s preference for Aamir Khan stemmed from his perception of the actor’s suitability for the role of Ajay Singh Rathod. He cited Aamir’s performance in scenes from the film Dil, particularly noting the sincerity and honesty evident in his expressions. Matthan believed that Aamir’s largely romantic filmography provided a refreshing contrast, making him an ideal choice to portray the gritty and determined character of Ajay. Moreover, Matthan saw Sarfarosh as an opportunity for Aamir Khan to break away from conventional roles and showcase his versatility as an actor.
The decision to cast Aamir Khan in Sarfarosh proved to be a masterstroke, both artistically and commercially. The film’s critical and commercial success validated Matthan’s choice, cementing Aamir’s reputation as a versatile and bankable actor. Sarfarosh not only elevated Aamir’s stature in the industry but also served as a catalyst for his subsequent foray into content-driven cinema. Films like Lagaan, Taare Zameen Par, and Dangal showcased Aamir’s commitment to quality storytelling, solidifying his position as one of Bollywood’s most influential figures.
In retrospect, the casting upheaval surrounding Sarfarosh underscores the unpredictable nature of filmmaking and the pivotal role of casting decisions in shaping the destiny of a film and its actors. While Shah Rukh Khan’s absence from Sarfarosh remains a mere footnote in his illustrious career, the film stands as a testament to Aamir Khan’s ability to seize opportunities and leave an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
