In a stunning revelation that could have rewritten Bollywood history, it has emerged that the legendary Sridevi was initially considered for a double role opposite Shah Rukh Khan in the 1993 blockbuster Baazigar.
The Casting That Almost Changed Everything
Director duo Abbas-Mustan recently disclosed that before Kajol became synonymous with the dual roles of Priya and Seema Chopra, they had approached the reigning queen of Bollywood, Sridevi, for what would become one of Hindi cinema's most iconic double performances.
Why Sridevi Said No
The primary reason for Sridevi declining the role was her packed schedule and prior commitments. At the peak of her career, the actress was juggling multiple projects and couldn't accommodate the demanding schedule required for playing two characters in the same film.
The Kajol Revolution
When Sridevi passed on the opportunity, the filmmakers turned to a relatively new face in Bollywood - Kajol. Her portrayal of the contrasting sisters not only became her breakthrough performance but also established her as a formidable talent in the industry.
How Different Would Baazigar Have Been?
Film historians and enthusiasts can't help but wonder how the cinematic landscape would have changed with Sridevi in the lead:
- The chemistry between Shah Rukh Khan and Sridevi would have been vastly different
- Sridevi's established stardom might have altered the film's dynamics
- The career trajectory for both Kajol and Sridevi would have been dramatically different
- The iconic "Baazigar O Baazigar" song might have featured Sridevi instead
A Bollywood Turning Point
This casting revelation highlights how seemingly small decisions can create seismic shifts in Bollywood history. Baazigar went on to become a cult classic, launching Shah Rukh Khan as the anti-hero and establishing Kajol as a leading actress.
The film's success paved the way for more experimental roles in mainstream Bollywood and cemented Abbas-Mustan's reputation as master storytellers of thrillers.
