Bollywood actor Imran Khan has recently graced the silver screen once again, marking his return after an extended absence of ten years. His latest appearance comes in the film 'Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos', which has generated considerable buzz among fans and cinephiles alike. In a candid conversation, the actor reflected on his career trajectory, revealing that he had been approached for several high-profile projects over the years, though many of these opportunities ultimately did not come to fruition.
Missed Opportunities in Major Bollywood Films
During an exclusive interview with PTI, Imran Khan delved into the specifics of some notable films that he was considered for but did not end up being a part of. He disclosed that renowned filmmakers Rohit Shetty and Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra had approached him with offers for significant projects such as 'Chennai Express' and 'Delhi 6'. The actor recounted that he had auditioned for these roles back in the period of 2006-2007, a time when he was still establishing himself in the industry.
The 'Delhi 6' Audition and Its Aftermath
Imran Khan provided detailed insights into his experience with 'Delhi 6', a film that eventually starred Abhishek Bachchan in the lead role. The movie narrates the story of an American-born Indian who visits India for the first time to accompany his ailing grandmother, only to find himself caught in the midst of communal conflicts. Khan expressed a deep personal connection to the narrative, stating, "I was born in the States, and I grew up kind of a child of two worlds. So, I related to those things. So, my instinct beforehand, and even after, was, ‘That would have been a cool film to have been a part of.' I would like to have been in that film."
He further elaborated on the reasons behind not being selected for the role, noting that the production team was hesitant to invest in a newcomer at that time. "At that point, I had not made any films; I tested for the (lead role) film. But at the time, they didn't want to put the money on a new person, on an untested, unproven person," he explained. This decision left him feeling profoundly disappointed, as he had been highly enthusiastic about the project.
Emotional Impact and Reflection
The actor did not shy away from discussing the emotional toll of missing out on such a promising opportunity. He admitted, "I was quite devastated that I did not get the part. But I guess looking at the scale of the film and the budget, they wanted a known person. This was before ‘Jaane Tu…’, released." Reflecting on the film's legacy, Khan acknowledged that 'Delhi 6' has aged well over time, adding to his sense of what might have been.
Details About 'Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos'
Turning to his current project, 'Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos' is directed by the talented duo of Vir Das and Kavi Shastri. The film features a star-studded cast including Vir Das, Mithila Palkar, Mona Singh, and other notable actors. It made its theatrical debut on January 16, 2026, offering audiences a fresh and entertaining cinematic experience.
Imran Khan's return to acting after a prolonged break has sparked renewed interest in his career and future endeavors. His revelations about the missed chances in Bollywood highlight the unpredictable nature of the film industry, where timing and circumstances often play crucial roles in shaping an actor's journey.
