Amid Baadshah 2 buzz, know which actress was first choice for Baadshah opposite SRK, how Twinkle Khanna was cast

Shah Rukh Khan and Twinkle Khanna-starrer Baadshah recently marked its 25th anniversary. The iconic flick, helmed by director-duo Abbas-Mustan became a massive hit and it cemented SRK's status. The unique storyline, SRK's charismatic performance with a dash of James Bond-esque espionage, catchy and witty one-liners and astounding soundtrack made the movie successful. Though Twinkle Khanna played the female lead in the movie, her performance received mixed reviews. However, did you know that Twinkle Khanna was not the first choice of the makers as the female lead?

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As the movie marked its 25th anniversary, producer Ratan Jain recalled the old days and revealed a lesser-known fact regarding the movie's casting choice.

Revealing the secret, Jain said, Twinkle was not the first choice for the role of female lead in Baadshah. It was Karisma Kapoor, whom the makers initially considered for the female lead. Eventually, the role landed with Twinkle Khanna.

Karisma Kapoor

During the interview with Bollywood Hungama, Jain revealed that Karisma was not only considered by the makers but she was almost finalised as the female lead. However, due to some unforeseen reasons, she couldn't be a part of the project. After exploring other options, Twinkle Khanna was cast as the leading lady of the movie.

During the interview, Jain also mentioned that after Baadshah, Shah Rukh became a favourite among children following the movie's television premiere.

Further, speaking about the Pathaan actor, Jain said that at the time of Baadshah's release, SRK was a 'newly minted star.' However, he was already popular among the audience. Baadshah received an overwhelming response after ot premiered on television and it was the time when SRK's stardom was on the rise. 

Jain also stated that at the time of its theatrical release, Baadshah was marketed as an action movie but it turned out to be a comedy-thriller. Thus, it underperformed at the box office. However, with its broadcast on television, it gained a cult following. Jain mentioned that even SRK has a special fondness for the film and often talks about Baadshah more than other films they collaborated on.

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Well, now that Jain has spilt the beans on Baadshah 2, it would certainly excite fans. As clarified, Baadshah sequel will be made only with Shah Rukh Khan and as soon as the makers find the right script and director. Now, fans need to wait with their fingers crossed.