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Shaad Ali's romantic comedy Bunty Aur Babli, starring Abhishek Bachchan, Rani Mukerji and Amitabh Bachchan, recently completed 20 years. The crime caper blockbuster was released on May 27 2005 and unarguably remains memorable for its concept, stellar cast, and funny and dramatic scenes. Moreover, the memorable soundtrack continues to strike a chord with the fans. But, did you know that Hrithik Roshan was the first choice for the male lead? Even Duggu suggested the climax scene of the blockbuster film!
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How Bunty Aur Babli Conceptualised?
During a recent interview with Bollywood Hungama, Director Saad Ali divulged how the film was conceptualised. He also revealed Hrithik Roshan was the first choice for the male lead and how his father Rakesh Roshan was keen about Duggu signing the film.
Saad Ali recalled working closely with Aditya Chopra and Yash Chopra during the promotions and while cutting the promos of Saathiya. After Saathiya's release, the Chopras asked Ali if he would do their next. By that time, Aditya Chopra had started producing films. Without a second thought, Ali gave a nod.
When they sat together to discuss about the project, Ali had the story of Jhoom Barabar Jhoom. However, Adi was not sure if it should be the next film, even though he liked the concept. During the meeting, Ali shared that he always had a desire to make a 'chor police' kind of film, set in a small-town India. The idea clicked Adi. Later, he teamed up with writer Jaideep Sahni.
Hrithik Liked The Concept But...
Ali revealed that they met Hrithik Roshan, as he was their first choice. Even they sat with Duggu and Rakesh Roshan for a few months. As Ali revealed, Rakesh liked the script and was keen that Hrithik should sign the film. However, was not comfortable going into a small town zone at that time. Despite that, he had a lot of ideas for the film.
Ali said, "In fact, it was Hrithik's idea that Bunty and Babli should return to conning in the last scene."
Hrithik said that they (Bunty and Babli) are like Superman. They can't go back to their normal lives and not return to the con world ever. According to the original idea, the story ended with Bunty and Babli becoming law-abiding citizens after being let off. However, Duggu's idea clicked with the makers and the climax scene was altered.
Ali said, "I should have thanked Hrithik in the credits."
Well, Ali revealed that Rani Mukerji was their first choice for the female lead.
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After Hrithik's nay, Abhishek Bachchan came on board, reportedly, on Adi's insistence. Notably, the crime caper Bunty Aur Babli changed the syntax of commercial storytelling. For YRF, it was an unfamiliar territory. However, the movie emerged as a blockbuster and the rest is history.
