director Anil Sharma once revealed actor Kajol and Aishwarya Rai She was one of the actresses contacted before the newcomers in “Gadar: Ek Prem Katha” amisha patel Sakina was eventually chosen. The filmmaker also explained why several high-profile actresses chose not to be part of the film and how Amisha’s dedication made her the perfect choice.In an interview with Shubhangkar Mishra, Sharma dismissed the notion that Kajol was the first and only choice for the film.
“We spoke to Kajol and Aishwarya Rai”
When asked if Kajol was initially supposed to star opposite Sunny Deal, Sharma said, “Not exactly. There was a theory that Kajol would play Ghadar. We did talk to Kajol. We also talked to Aishwarya Rai. In fact, we are in discussions with a lot of actresses.”He added that several actors and actresses heard the script but were hesitant to join.“Many people have heard this story, but they don’t understand it. Some people don’t want to work with me, some don’t want to work with Sunny Deol, and some don’t want to make a period film at all.”
“People want charming overseas movies”
Explaining the mentality of the film industry in the late 1990s, Sharma said films set abroad dominated Bollywood.“In 1998, everyone wanted glamorous films shot in Switzerland or London. Overseas markets became very important. Since Gadar was centered on India and Pakistan, a lot of people were hesitant. Period films were thought to have no commercial appeal. Everyone wanted glamor and glossy romantic films. That’s why many artists, including actresses, turned down the film.”
Why Anil Sharma chose Amrish Puri more than one heroine
The filmmaker revealed that budget constraints also affected the casting process.“Zee told me, ‘Sunny Deol has come on board. We have a fixed budget. Within this amount you can choose Amrish Puri or a big heroine. “Sharma said his decision was immediate.“I said, ‘I will choose Amrish Puri because Pakistan is Amrish Puri in this film. The heroine can be a young newcomer. The character is so powerful that whoever plays it will become a star.'”Based on this decision, the team auditioned nearly 400-500 aspiring actresses and ultimately selected 12 finalists.“Ameesha Patel was one of those 12 girls. At that time, Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai is not released yet. The filming has just begun. “
“People still call her Sakina”
Sharma praised Amisha Patel for her commitment to the role, saying her dedication remains unparalleled.“Ameesha works extremely hard. She is one of the most dedicated actresses I have ever worked with. For six months, she came to see me every weekday from 2 to 5 p.m. to prepare for the role.”He added, “She completely transformed herself into Sakina. It is because of her efforts that even today people don’t call her Amisha Patel but Sakina.”
“Actors don’t control everything”
Looking back at Amisha’s career after Ghadar and Kaho Na Piyar Hai, Sharma said success in the film industry depends on a combination of talent, environment and luck.“No one knows what turns life will take. Sometimes it’s because of your own mistakes, sometimes it’s because of circumstances, and sometimes it’s just fate.”He also noted that actors have limited control over how the film ultimately takes shape.“We identify movies by actors just as we identify songs by singers. But the fact is, neither has complete control. If the director chooses a bad shot when editing, or shoots the movie poorly, what can the actor do? The actor can only give his best performance.”Sharma once again praised Amesha and concluded, “It was destiny to get Kaho Na… Piyar Hai and Gadar. These films are extraordinary. What Amesha has done is to prove that belief through hard work. These two films will always have a place in the history of Indian cinema.”