Shyam Benegal’s demise has left a void in the film fraternity. Throughout his illustrious career, Benegal made numerous films that are now considered classics. Working under Benegal must have remained a dream of many actors. But, did you know that Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan and Anil Kapoor rejected a classic movie offered by Benegal that later on bagged a National Award? Moreover, this rejection of the three superstars turned fateful for another actor.
Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan’s rejection turned fateful for lead actor in Shyam Benegal’s National Award-winning film!
Shyam Benegal, a prominent figure in the Indian film industry, succumbed to chronic kidney disease after a prolonged battle on December 23, 2024. His demise has left a void in the film fraternity. The entire film industry mourned the death of the visionary director who reshaped the landscape of Indian cinema. Throughout his illustrious career, Benegal made numerous films that are now considered classics. In general, his films are celebrated for their realistic portrayal of societal issues, though different from the mainstream cinema conventions. His notable works include Ankur (1973), Nishant (1975), Manthan (1976), Bhumika (1977), Junoon (1978), Mandi (1983) and more. Working under Benegal must have remained a dream of many actors. But, did you know that Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan and Anil Kapoor rejected a classic movie offered by Benegal that later on bagged a National Award? Moreover, this rejection of the three superstars turned fateful for another actor.
The film is Zubeidaa which showcases the real-life story of the late actor and singer Zubeida Begum. The film still remains popular for its stellar performances by the cast. While Karisma Kapoor portrayed the character of Zubeida Begum, the male lead was portrayed by Manoj Bajpayee. His character was inspired by the real-life Maharaj of Jodhpur, Hanwant Singh.
As per reports, Manoj Bajpayee was not Benegal’s first choice for the male lead character. The role was first offered to Shah Rukh, Aamir and Anil. However, the actors turned down the offer and subsequently, it landed with Manoj.
Casting Manoj as a royal prince was certainly unconventional, given his character portrayal in movies like Satya. However, visionary filmmaker Benegal identified his versatility and locked him for the role.
Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan’s rejection turned fateful for lead actor in Shyam Benegal’s National Award-winning film!
Earlier, during an interview, Manoj said that it was Benegal’s intelligence to see beyond his looks and cast him as a prince.
Zubeidaa is considered a magical yet melancholic film. According to reports, it won a National Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi and Karisma Kapoor won the Filmfare Award for Best Actress in Critics role.
Benegal died at 6:38 pm at Wockhardit Hospital in Mumbai. He was 90.
