Vikram's Missed Opportunity: How a Confusing Audition Cost Him the Lead Role in Mani Ratnam's 'Bombay'
In a surprising revelation, acclaimed actor Vikram has disclosed that he was originally in contention for the pivotal role of Shekhar Narayanan Pillai in director Mani Ratnam's iconic 1995 film 'Bombay'. The part ultimately went to Arvind Swami, who starred opposite Manisha Koirala as Shaila Banu in the romantic drama that became a pan-Indian cult classic.
The Audition That Went Awry: Vikram's Account of the Fateful Day
During a candid interview with Siddharth Kannan, Vikram clarified long-standing rumors about his involvement with the project. Contrary to speculation that he had turned down the role, the actor explained that he did not refuse the film but instead failed the audition due to unexpected circumstances.
"I didn't refuse Bombay, I goofed up the audition because he (Mani Ratnam) suddenly asked me to audition," Vikram recounted. "He didn't get a video camera, he got a still camera and said, act. He told me, look at that girl, she is running, and I would freeze. He said, don't freeze, continue. I was confused because I understood that if I moved he would get a blurry image."
Emotional Aftermath: Two Months of Tears Over Lost Dream Role
The actor described the profound emotional impact of losing this career-defining opportunity. "It was a dream for me to work with Shankar sir and Mani sir. I was ready to retire after this film; I didn't need anything after that," Vikram revealed. "I was even confirmed for it. The morning was her (Manisha Koirala) photoshoot and the evening was mine. But I screwed it up."
Vikram admitted to experiencing significant distress following the failed audition. "For two months, every day, I would wake up and cry, sh*t I lost it. A grown man crying for two months," he confessed. The actor noted that 'Bombay' went on to achieve tremendous success, with the song 'Uyire' remaining a personal favorite.
Silver Linings and Professional Revenge
Despite the initial disappointment, Vikram found redemption through subsequent collaborations with the acclaimed director. "But I got my revenge by getting two films with him for that," he joked, referring to his roles in Mani Ratnam's epic historical dramas 'Ponniyin Selvan: I' and 'Ponniyin Selvan: II'.
Vikram's Current Projects and Filmography
On the professional front, Vikram was most recently seen in Pa Ranjith's period action film 'Thangalaan', which premiered in theaters during August. The versatile actor has several upcoming projects in various stages of production:
- SU Arun Kumar's 'Veera Dheera Sooran: Part 2' - An anticipated sequel in which Vikram will feature prominently
- Gautham Vasudev Menon's 'Dhruva Natchathiram: Chapter One – Yuddha Kaandam' - A long-awaited spy thriller that has been in development for an extended period
This revelation provides fascinating insight into the casting decisions behind one of Indian cinema's most beloved films and demonstrates how even established actors face significant career crossroads. Vikram's emotional honesty about this professional setback highlights the intense passion and dedication that drives performers in the competitive entertainment industry.
