Refugee clocks 25: Not Kareena Kapoor, Abhishek Bachchan's first ever screen test was with THIS actress!

June 30, 2000 — a date etched in Bollywood history. It marked the arrival of Kareena Kapoor Khan on the silver screen with Refugee, a film that not only launched her career but also cemented her place as one of Indian cinema’s most iconic leading ladies. Fast forward to 2025, Kareena celebrates 25 glorious years in the film industry, with hits like 3 Idiots, Golmaal, Jab We Met, and Bajrangi Bhaijaan under her belt.

But did you know? Kareena wasn’t the first actress to screen test for Refugee.

Abhishek’s Surprising Revelation

In an interview with India Today, Abhishek Bachchan revealed that his very first screen test for Refugee was not with Kareena but with Bipasha Basu, who was a model at the time. “I am petrified of auditions. My first ever screen test was with Bipasha for Refugee,” he said.

He admitted feeling nervous during auditions, describing himself as a "director’s actor" who thrives on guidance rather than cold reads. “Auditions don’t even show 1% of what an actor can do,” he added, praising casting directors for their ability to spot talent.

Bebo’s Tribute to 25 Years

On Instagram, Kareena shared a heartfelt post with the caption: “25 years and forever to go…” A sentiment echoed by her fans and the industry alike. She was recently seen in Singham Again and Crew, both went to become box office success.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Kareena Kapoor Khan (@kareenakapoorkhan)

A Journey of Stardust and Surprises

From nervous screen tests to superstardom, Kareena’s journey has been nothing short of iconic. As Refugee clocks 25, it reminds us how film history is shaped by fate—and sometimes, by a casting twist.