Blockbusters Hrithik Roshan rejected: Iconic movies that became huge hits without him

Farah Khan’s Main Hoon Na was a high-octane Bollywood masala entertainer that had everything—action, drama, romance, and comedy. Hrithik was reportedly approached to play Laxman (Lucky), the younger stepbrother of Shah Rukh Khan’s character. However, he declined, and the role went to Zayed Khan. The film became one of the biggest hits of 2004, and Lucky’s character played a crucial role in the storyline. While Zayed Khan received praise for his portrayal, Hrithik’s presence could have elevated the film even further, given his ability to blend action with emotional depth.

When Farhan Akhtar was casting for his directorial debut, Dil Chahta Hai, he envisioned Hrithik Roshan in the role of Sameer, a fun-loving and slightly naïve character. However, Hrithik turned it down, reportedly due to date clashes and his commitment to other projects at the time. The role was then given to Saif Ali Khan, who delivered one of his career-best performances. The film revolutionized Bollywood’s approach to storytelling, youth-centric cinema, and urban friendship narratives. Given Hrithik’s charming screen presence, it’s intriguing to think how he would have brought Sameer’s character to life.

Ashutosh Gowariker, fresh from the success of Lagaan, was reportedly keen on casting Hrithik Roshan for the lead role of Mohan Bhargav in Swades. However, Hrithik declined the offer, and the role eventually went to Shah Rukh Khan. The film, which revolves around an NRI scientist returning to India to uplift a rural village, became one of the most critically acclaimed movies of all time. Though it underperformed at the box office during its initial release, Swades later gained cult status and is often regarded as one of SRK’s best performances. It’s interesting to imagine how Hrithik would have portrayed the emotionally complex and socially responsible protagonist.

Hrithik was reportedly approached for the role of Karan Singhania in Rang De Basanti, the character that was ultimately played by Siddharth. The film, directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, was a game-changer, blending history with contemporary political themes. With a stellar ensemble cast, including Aamir Khan, Sharman Joshi, and Kunal Kapoor, Rang De Basanti became a cinematic masterpiece. The role of Karan, a wealthy but disillusioned young man who finds purpose in his country’s fight for justice, was one of the most intense in the film. While Siddharth did full justice to the role, Hrithik’s depth as an actor could have added another layer to it.

Shaad Ali’s Bunty Aur Babli was a stylish and entertaining con film that became one of the biggest hits of 2005. Hrithik was reportedly offered the lead role of Bunty, but he turned it down. The role eventually went to Abhishek Bachchan, who, alongside Rani Mukerji, created a dynamic and lovable con-artist duo. The film was a massive commercial success and is still remembered for its energetic performances, foot-tapping music, and engaging storyline. Given Hrithik’s charm and on-screen charisma, he could have brought a different dimension to Bunty’s street-smart and mischievous character.

Interestingly, Hrithik almost said no to Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara due to scheduling conflicts. However, he later came on board, and the film went on to become one of his most loved performances. Hrithik played Arjun, a workaholic who learns to live life to the fullest during a road trip across Spain with his friends. The film became a cultural phenomenon, redefining friendships and travel in Bollywood. Had Hrithik turned it down completely, we might have seen a very different version of the film.