Not Anil Kapoor! THIS superstar was Salim-Javed’s first choice for Mr. India

Even decades after its release, Mr. India remains a cult classic, thanks to its memorable dialogues, Sridevi’s comic brilliance, and of course, Mogambo’s evil laugh. But what if we told you that the invisible hero wasn’t always meant to be Anil Kapoor? Yes, the makers had a very different superstar in mind — someone who had already ruled the ‘70s and ‘80s with back-to-back hits.

Yes, you read that right! The original script of Mr. India was written with none other than Shahenshah Amitabh Bachchan in mind. The superstar of the '70s and '80s had already collaborated successfully with Salim-Javed on blockbusters like Zanjeer, Sholay, and Deewaar, so it made perfect sense to have him as the face of their next ambitious venture.

Though Big B loved the idea, he reportedly turned down the role due to health reasons and scheduling conflicts. At the time, Bachchan was overcommitted with back-to-back projects, and the complex shoot schedule — including special effects, something not commonly used in that era — made it tough for him to commit.

After Amitabh opted out, the role went to Anil Kapoor, who was still in the process of establishing himself as a bankable star. Mr. India ended up being his breakthrough film and made him a household name. Interestingly, Anil himself once admitted in an interview that he had “big shoes to fill” knowing the part was originally meant for Big B.

Imagine Amitabh Bachchan saying, "Mogambo khush hua!" It’s a tantalizing thought, but also a reminder that casting changes can define a film’s legacy. Amrish Puri's Mogambo, Sridevi’s comic timing, and Anil Kapoor’s charm created an irreplaceable cinematic blend.

Despite the missed opportunity, Salim-Javed and Amitabh Bachchan remained close collaborators. They reunited on Shakti (1982), Silsila (1981), and later in Coolie (1983). Their mutual respect for each other’s craft never waned — Mr. India was just one project that passed them by.