Shah Rukh Khan, the undisputed Badshah of Bollywood, has an incredible career spanning decades with numerous blockbusters to his name. However, what's equally fascinating are the landmark films he chose to reject that eventually became cinematic milestones. These nine movies represent some of the biggest "what if" scenarios in Indian cinema history.
The Epic Historicals That Got Away
Among the most surprising rejections in Shah Rukh Khan's career are two period epics that defined their era. Ashutosh Gowariker's Lagaan, which went on to receive an Academy Award nomination, was initially offered to SRK. The actor reportedly turned down the role of Bhuvan, which eventually made Aamir Khan a national sensation and created cinematic history.
Similarly, Jodhaa Akbar saw Shah Rukh Khan passing on the majestic role of Emperor Akbar. The historical romance eventually starred Hrithik Roshan alongside Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and became one of the most successful period films in Bollywood history. The film's grandeur and scale might have been different had SRK accepted the part.
Comedy and Drama Classics
The list of rejected films includes what became defining movies for other Bollywood superstars. Munna Bhai M.B.B.S., the film that launched Sanjay Dutt's beloved tapori character and spawned an entire franchise, was first offered to Shah Rukh Khan. The actor's decision to decline the role created an opportunity for Sanjay Dutt to deliver one of his most memorable performances.
Another significant miss was Munnabhai M.B.B.S., though this appears to be a duplicate mention in the original source. The iconic Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge almost had a different ending and nearly didn't feature SRK at all, according to various industry reports, though this particular rejection isn't clearly detailed in the source material.
Films That Made Other Stars
Shah Rukh Khan's rejections often became career-defining opportunities for other actors. Swades, though eventually starring SRK, had a complicated journey to the screen. More clearly, the role in a film that eventually went to another major star demonstrates how one actor's rejection can create another's breakthrough.
The pattern continues with multiple films where Shah Rukh Khan's decisions opened doors for competitors. Each rejected project represents a turning point not just in SRK's career trajectory but in the larger landscape of Bollywood stardom and film history.
These nine rejected films collectively represent some of the most successful projects in Indian cinema that could have featured Shah Rukh Khan in lead roles. The actor's selective approach to scripts, while sometimes resulting in missed opportunities, has also contributed to his carefully crafted image and enduring superstardom over three decades in the industry.
