5 hit films rejected by birthday girl Rani Mukerji
From that bubbly teenager speaking accented Bengali in her debut film Biyer Phool (1996) to a retired woman in Bunty Aur Babli 2 (2021), Rani Mukerji has come a long way over the years. Though her filmography has many blockbusters, it would've had some more had the ace actor not rejected them. On her birthday, let's discuss five hit films she had turned down.
'Bhool Bhulaiyaa' (2007)
It's hard to imagine anyone other than Vidya Balan in the role of Avni Chaturvedi/Manjulika in Bhool Bhulaiyaa. But the film's director Priyadarshan had initially offered Mukerji that role. However, she had to refuse it because her diary was chock-a-block with numerous projects. In fact, in 2007, three films starring Mukerji were released: Ta Ra Rum Pum, Laaga Chunari Mein Daag, and Saawariya.
'Lagaan' (2001)
The late 1990s and early 2000s were a busy time for Mukerji and she had to refuse many promising films due to date issues. One such movie was Lagaan. The 2001 epic musical Bollywood period film was directed by Ashutosh Gowariker and led by Aamir Khan. Makers had approached Mukerji for the role of Gauri and after her refusal, it went to Gracy Singh.
'Dil Se..' (1998)
Dil Se.. gave us an unusual romance between a militant and a journalist. But there was also another romantic angle, albeit one-way, between the latter and his fiancee, Preeti Nair. Before finalizing Preity Zinta, Nair's part was offered to Mukerji. However, she rejected it because Mukerji felt the role lacked weightage—and honestly, it did. Mehndi (1998) was much better, in terms of role weightage.
'Munnabhai MBBS' (2003)
The year 2003 was probably the most hectic for Mukerji, as she had four big releases including Chalte Chalte alongside a special appearance in a Kal Ho Naa Ho song. Hence, she had to turn down Munnabhai MBBS. In the Rajkumar Hirani-directorial, the chemistry between Sanjay Dutt and Singh was loved by all. Now, imagine how the Dutt-Mukerji pairing would have looked together!
'Heyy Baby' (2007)
Along with Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Mukerji had rejected another 2007 film, Heyy Baby. And interestingly, that role also went to Balan. And the film, like Bhool Bhulaiyaa, starred Akshay Kumar, too! The reason for turning the part down is not known, but we must admit that we are happyMukerji refused to do it because her other 2007 releases were much sharper. Happy Birthday, Rani!
