DYK? Behind every Bollywood blockbuster are shocking casting surprises you’ve never heard of!

Many believe Deepika Padukone’s big Bollywood break came with Shah Rukh Khan in Om Shanti Om (2007), but that wasn’t her first film. She actually made her acting debut in 2006 with a Kannada film titled Aishwarya, a romantic drama in which she played the lead opposite actor Upendra. Om Shanti Om gave her pan-India fame, but her journey had already begun in regional cinema.

Before Preity Zinta played the iconic role of Naina in Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003), Karan Johar had approached Kareena Kapoor. She was his first choice for the character and even did look tests. However, due to a disagreement over fees, Kareena opted out of the project. Karan then cast Preity Zinta, who delivered a memorable performance and won several awards for the role. Years later, both Karan and Kareena have openly acknowledged the fallout, which they have since moved past.

Today, Nawazuddin Siddiqui is known for his powerhouse performances, but his early roles were barely noticeable. In Aamir Khan’s Sarfarosh (1999), he played a criminal who gets interrogated—his scene lasted less than two minutes. In Munna Bhai MBBS (2003), he was a pickpocket pretending to be a patient. These blink-and-miss roles were part of his long struggle before his breakout performance in Gangs of Wasseypur made the industry take notice.

Before becoming one of Bollywood’s most versatile actors, Ranveer Singh struggled like any newcomer. During his initial audition rounds, he was once turned down for a simple TV ad. The reason? The casting team said he looked “too smart” and not relatable enough for the ad’s concept. It’s ironic now, considering how Ranveer is known for playing everything from rough street rappers to regal rulers with total authenticity.

Before Rani Mukerji became a household name with Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998), the role of Tina was actually offered to Twinkle Khanna. Karan Johar, who was making his directorial debut, had Twinkle in mind when writing the character. However, Twinkle rejected the film, reportedly because she didn't find the role substantial enough. Karan later cast Rani Mukerji, and her performance made her an overnight sensation. Interestingly, Karan still jokes that Twinkle’s rejection was the best thing that happened to the film.