Veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha recently revealed that he had been offered the lead roles in the iconic Bollywood movies Deewar and Sholay before they went to Amitabh Bachchan. Speaking at the Sahitya Aajtak Kolkata event in 2023, Sinha expressed regret over turning down the roles and spoke about his experiences in the film industry.
According to Sinha, the script for Deewar was initially offered to him, and he had it for six months. However, due to a difference in opinion, he ultimately backed out of the project. Sinha also revealed that he had to turn down the lead role in Sholay due to scheduling conflicts, which resulted in the role going to Amitabh Bachchan.
Sinha’s comments shed light on the casting process in Bollywood and the role of actors in shaping the industry. While it is common knowledge that Deewar and Sholay were massive hits that propelled Amitabh Bachchan to superstardom, Sinha’s revelation shows that the casting process is not always straightforward, and even accomplished actors can miss out on iconic roles.
During his talk, Sinha also addressed the issue of ego clashes between actors, stating that it is a common occurrence in the industry. He acknowledged that stardom, fans, and personal following can cause conflicts between actors, but that maturity and experience ultimately resolve these clashes. Sinha also emphasized the importance of forgiveness in the industry, saying that he has no enemies in the industry and is friends with everyone.
The actor also spoke about his signature dialogue “Khamosh” and how it became so famous. Sinha said he is still trying to figure out why the dialogue became so popular and that he has said it in many films. However, he recently noticed that Prithviraj Kapoor says the same dialogue in the film Mughal-e-Azam, which suggests that the line might have been popular before he used it. Regardless, Sinha expressed his gratitude to his fans for the enduring popularity of the dialogue.
Sinha also discussed his roots in Bihar and how it shaped his career. When he first arrived in Mumbai, he was not considered a conventionally good-looking actor and was told that only handsome actors could make it in the industry. However, Sinha persisted and took inspiration from the famous personalities from Bihar who had made it big in the industry. He emphasized that Bihar is his weakness and strength, and he remains proud of his roots to this day.
In conclusion, Shatrughan Sinha’s revelations about turning down Deewar and Sholay shed light on the complex casting process in Bollywood and the role of actors in shaping the industry. His comments about ego clashes and forgiveness also offer valuable insights into the interpersonal dynamics of the industry. Overall, Sinha’s talk offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and career of one of Bollywood’s most iconic actors.
In conclusion, Shatrughan Sinha is a legendary actor who has made significant contributions to the Indian film industry. His revelations about turning down two of the most iconic films of Bollywood, Deewar and Sholay, have left many fans and film enthusiasts wondering what could have been had he taken those roles. However, Sinha’s humility and honesty about his decisions and the reasons behind them are admirable, and his regret serves as a reminder that even the greatest performers have their moments of missed opportunities and what-ifs.
Additionally, Sinha’s insights into the ego clashes between actors and the importance of forgiveness and understanding in the industry are valuable lessons for both aspiring actors and fans. It highlights the need for mutual respect and collaboration among actors, regardless of their stardom and following.
Lastly, Shatrughan Sinha’s journey from being a “kati fati shakal” (roughly translated to “ugly face”) from Bihar to becoming a beloved actor and icon is a story of perseverance, grit, and determination. His embrace of his identity and background serves as an inspiration for millions of people from smaller towns and underrepresented regions who aspire to make it big in their respective fields.
Overall, Shatrughan Sinha’s revelations and insights at the Sahitya Aajtak Kolkata 2023 event have provided a glimpse into the mind of a veteran actor and have left a lasting impression on his fans and admirers. His contributions to Indian cinema and his impact on the industry will forever be remembered and celebrated.
