When modifications in Bollywood film scripts led to changes in star cast

When modifications in Bollywood film scripts led to changes in star cast
Tuesday, February 17, 2015 12:35 IST
With Shraddha Kapoor apparently making way for a newbie in Sabbir Khan's 'Baaghi' due to script changes, we point out instances when reworked stories impacted casting decisions

The practice of taking scripts back to the board has become rather common in present times. Often, it is done on the insistence of stars, who have a big say in the making of a film and take great interest in the commercial viability of the project. Sometimes, it happens when the makers feel certain scenes or the climax can be improved upon. But this has a domino effect. We have learnt that Shraddha Kapoor, who was supposed to be part of Sabbir Khan's 'Baaghi' as Tiger Shroff's ladylove, has been replaced by a newcomer. Apparently, when she was approached for the project, the script had not been finalised. When the story shaped up, the makers realised they needed a fresh face.

A source says, "Shraddha was probably being considered for the role as other actresses must have been, but the makers always wanted a new girl opposite Tiger."

Nevertheless, hitlist takes a look at some other instances when changes in the script brought about corresponding changes in casting.

Hello: Diljit Dosanjh
Adieu: Ayushmann Khurrana

The actor-singer was shown the door by the makers of 'Udta Punjab' soon after Kareena Kapoor Khan walked into the project. Rumour mongers blamed it on Bebo's alleged stance on working only with stars.


Diljit Dosanjh and Ayushmann Khurrana

However, industry sources claimed that the film's director Abhishek Chaubey was making some changes to the script, which demanded a new face. Fawad Khan was being considered to star opposite Kareena but finally, it was Punjabi star Diljit Dosanjh who got the deal.

Hello: Aditi Rao Hydari
Adieu: Kajal Agarwal

The 'Special 26' starlet was gearing up to play Chandramukhi in Sudhir Mishra's 'Aur Devdas' but then Aditi Rao Hydari's name started doing the rounds.


Kajal Agarwal (above) and (right) Aditi Rao Hydari

The director was apparently re-working the role and felt his original choice, Aditi, would fit the bill. Consequently, Kajal was ousted and Aditi brought on board.

Hello: Neil Bhoopalam
Adieu: Rajkummar Rao

Several rumours circulated when Rajkummar Rao lost out to Neil Bhoopalam for the role of Anushka Sharma's husband in 'NH10'.


Neil Bhoopalam and Rajkummar Rao

Industry sources suggested that the actress' maiden production venture was delayed for a long time and Rajkummar had to start shooting for Hansal Mehta's 'Citylights'. Some others pointed out that the story was altered and following discussions between Anushka and director Navdeep Singh, the makers agreed that Neil Bhoopalam would suit the role.

Hello: Jackky Bhagnani
Adieu: Irrfan

The casting for Welcome to Karachi underwent several changes before Jackky Bhagnani and Arshad Warsi were locked in. It is said that Irrfan and Kunal Roy Kapur had been signed on initially but when Vashu Bhagnani decided to back the project, he dropped Kunal and brought in Warsi.


Jackky Bhagnani and Irrfan

Eventually, Irrfan also walked out when the new producer suggested a few changes in the script. 'The Lunchbox' star was also supposedly unhappy with Nargis Fakhri being replaced by a fresh-faced foreign import, Rabia Khan.

Hello: Amy Jackson
Adieu: Kriti Sanon

The tall, lanky actress had been signed for Prabhu Dheva's 'Singh is Bling'. Kriti was believed to have got exclusive access to co-star Akshay Kumar's personal gym to get into shape for the role.


Amy Jackson (left) and Kriti Sanon (right)

However, it recently emerged that the Heropanti actress had been replaced by Amy Jackson for the project after its script was turned around - apparently on Akki's insistence. Kriti has now allotted her dates to Rohit Shetty's next with Varun Dhawan. "The script needed to be reworked and Prabhu Deva is doing it on Akshay's persuasion. The film will get rolling in April," says a source.
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