Was Salman Khan the original choice for this 2002 cult classic?

Darbar, who composed the unforgettable soundtrack for the film, said, “When I needed work, Sanjay Leela Bhansali gave me Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. And when he needed me, I gave up all my work for Devdas. He was my godfather in the industry. My heart tells me that his equation with Salman soured because he hired Shah Rukh for Devdas.”

When Friendship Turned Sour

Darbar hinted that Salman and Bhansali’s relationship took a hit after the filmmaker cast SRK instead. “Salman supported him even when Khamoshi flopped,” Darbar said, suggesting the actor might have felt betrayed when Bhansali turned to his Bollywood rival.

Aishwarya Rai’s Emotional Ordeal

The timing also raised eyebrows, Devdas was filmed shortly after Aishwarya Rai and Salman Khan’s breakup, sparking speculation that their strained relationship influenced the casting. Darbar reflected on that painful period, saying Aishwarya felt 'deeply hurt' and 'betrayed by the industry' for allegedly siding with Salman.

Despite the emotional turmoil, Devdas went on to become one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated films but behind its grandeur lay untold heartbreak and broken bonds.