In 2015, Bajrangi Bhaijaan became one of the most beloved films in Bollywood with Salman Khan delivering an unforgettable performance. However, few people know that the role of Pawan was initially offered to South Indian cinema giants Allu Arjun and Rajinikanth.
Director Kabir Khan had been developing the emotionally charged script of Bajrangi Bhaijaan for several years, envisioning various actors in the lead roles. Before approaching Salman Khan, he reached out to Rajinikanth and Allu Arjun two of the most prominent actors in South Indian cinema to play the role of Pawan.
According to reports from Udayavani, Rajinikanth, and Allu Arjun he turned down the offer for unclear reasons. This decision led Kabir Khan to present the script to Salman Khan who was captivated by the story and agreed to take on the role.
The rest is history. Bajrangi Bhaijaan went on to win numerous awards and became a box office sensation. Salman Khan’s portrayal of the humble and kind-hearted Pawan resonated deeply with audiences, solidifying his position as one of Bollywood’s biggest stars. The film’s success also highlighted the importance of perfect casting, as Salman’s unique charm and sincerity brought the character to life in a way that continues to be celebrated.
In an interview with Udayavani, Rockline Venkatesh, the producer of Bajrangi Bhaijaan, revealed the earlier casting choices and praised Salman Khan’s contribution to the film’s success.
On the work front, Allu Arjun is currently focused on his upcoming film, Pushpa 2: The Rise, while Rajinikanth has projects like Vettaiyan and Coolie lined up.
