Directed by Nikkhil Advani, 'Kal Ho Naa Ho' remains one of Bollywood's most cherished romantic dramas. Penned by Karan Johar and Niranjan Iyengar, the film featured Shah Rukh Khan, Saif Ali Khan, and Preity Zinta in pivotal roles. The supporting cast included Jaya Bachchan, Sushma Seth, Reema Lagoo, Lillete Dubey, and Delnaaz Irani.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City, the narrative revolves around Naina, who falls deeply in love with Aman. However, a concealed truth prevents Aman from reciprocating her feelings. Instead, he endeavors to unite her with her friend Rohit, leading to an emotionally charged storyline.
Throwback Clip of Preity Zinta Resurfaces
A recently resurfaced clip from the popular talk show 'Koffee With Karan' has reignited discussions about the casting of 'Kal Ho Naa Ho'. In the video, host Karan Johar questioned Preity Zinta about Kareena Kapoor Khan's comments regarding the film.
Karan Johar, who produced the movie, had initially approached Kareena Kapoor Khan for the role of Naina. Reports indicate that she demanded a remuneration equivalent to Shah Rukh Khan's fee at that time. This reportedly led to her departure from the project, and the role eventually went to Preity Zinta, who became synonymous with the character.
Preity Zinta's Iconic Response
During the show, Karan Johar asked Preity Zinta, 'Kareena was the first choice of the film and how did you feel actually, you know, stepping into Kareena Kapoor's shoes for the film?'
Responding candidly, the actress said, 'I mean, you go to a store, you try on a pair of jeans and they fit you well. But you don't buy them, it doesn't mean they're your jeans. The next person who comes tries them on and buys them, it belongs to them.'
She further added, 'I remember when you called me and I said, "Okay, can I hear the script?" Once I heard the script, I was like, "Why doesn't Kareena want to do this film?" And then it was all over the place. Kareena was the first choice, Preity Zinta was the second choice. And Kareena was saying that, "I said no to it." So I said, "Okay, thank you, Kareena. It doesn't matter any which way, this film was in my destiny."'
Saif Ali Khan's Take
Karan Johar then turned to Saif Ali Khan, who was also present on the show, and asked, 'And did you think Kareena or her would have been, who would have been the better Naina?'
Saif responded, 'I mean, now that I see the film, I can't imagine anyone else except Preity leading that part.'
The situation reportedly created tension between Karan Johar and Kareena Kapoor Khan, leading to a temporary fallout. However, the two later reconciled and collaborated on the film 'Kurbaan', which unfortunately received mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike.
