This Bollywood superstar rejected Abhimanyu's role in BR Chopra's Mahabharat, one word from his mother changed everything; his name is…

India.com

6 days ago

When we talk about Indian television's most iconic shows, how can we forget BR Chopra's Mahabharat? But did you know that behind its casting lies a lesser-known what-if, a chapter featuring none other than Bollywood's beloved star Govinda?
Yes, you read it right! In an old interview, Govinda revealed that he was once set to play the role of Abhimanyu in Mahabharat. Not only did he audition, but he was also selected for the role. However, fate and family had other plans. Here's why he rejected that role
At the same time he was finalised for Mahabharat, Govinda was offered a lead role in a film titled Tan-Badan, being produced by his uncle. Torn between the promise of television glory and the big screen, Govinda turned to the one person whose word mattered most — his mother.
'She told me clearly if you have to choose between TV and films, go with films,' Govinda shared. Following her advice, he respectfully stepped away from Mahabharat and chose the film. The fallout with BR Chopra
Govinda recalled how he went to inform the legendary director BR Chopra about his decision. But the meeting didn't go well.
'I went to apologise and explain my situation,' he said. 'But Chopra saab got angry and said, 'Bahar nikaalo isko'.' The matter didn't end there. Chopra reportedly even insulted Govinda's mother, calling her 'paagal', something that deeply upset the young actor. No regrets, only reverence
Despite this stormy episode, Govinda never questioned the path he took. His debut in films launched a career that made him one of the most successful and loved actors of the 90s.
'I've never regretted that decision,' he has said in several interviews. 'My mother's blessings shaped my journey, and every bit of success I got is because of her.' The role that could've been
Had Govinda played Abhimanyu, Indian television history might've looked different. But instead, the role went to another actor, and Govinda went on to become a Bollywood legend.
It's a classic tale of choosing one path over another, with faith, family, and a little filmy drama in the mix. Who played the role of Abhimanyu then?
The role eventually went to Mayur Verma, who portrayed Abhimanyu in BR Chopra's Mahabharat. In the epic, Abhimanyu is the valiant son of Arjun and Subhadra, the husband of Uttara, and the father of Parikshit, the sole surviving heir of the Pandavas' lineage after the Kurukshetra war. His character remains one of the most poignant and heroic arcs in the epic.