3 Idiots to 2 States: Movies rejected by Anushka Sharma; Number 3 will surprise you

A few of Bollywood's best-known films were initially presented to Anushka Sharma, who for some reasons chose not to accept them. The roles she rejected went on to become career-defining moments for other heroines. Here's a list tracing such movies.

Anushka Sharma was initially approached for the role of Pia, the energetic medical student and Rancho's love interest, in this coming-of-age comedy-drama. It is reported that she auditioned but eventually refused the role for reasons that remain unexplained. Kareena Kapoor went on to play the role of Pia. The movie went on to become a huge blockbuster, winning people over with its portrayal of friendship, learning, and pursuing one's passion, and is today considered a modern classic.

Imtiaz Ali approached Anushka for Tara, the independent woman who leads Ved to re-discover himself. Anushka turned it down, allegedly because she wasn't happy with the script or the trajectory of her character. Deepika Padukone took over, and her on-screen chemistry with Ranbir Kapoor was much appreciated. The movie, while not a box office blockbuster, was critically acclaimed for its narrative and performances.

Producers wanted Anushka Sharma to play Diya, a passionate artist navigating love and time travel with Sidharth Malhotra’s character. She rejected the film, reportedly due to dissatisfaction with the script. Katrina Kaif was cast instead. Despite high expectations and a unique premise, the film underperformed at the box office and received mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike.

Anushka was approached for the role of Kia, a working woman who gets married to a house-husband, subverting gender clichés. She declined the role for undisclosed reasons. Kareena Kapoor played the role instead, and the movie was welcomed for its new approach to contemporary relationships and gender, which fared well at the box office.

Anushka was approached to enact the role of Ananya, a Tamil girl grappling with cultural differences in a cross-community romance with Arjun Kapoor's character. She turned down the offer for unspecified reasons. Alia Bhatt was replaced and went on to receive accolades for her portrayal. The movie was an immense success, touching hearts of audiences everywhere due to its down-to-earth plot and powerful performances