Did you know Tabu REJECTED Hema Malini's role in Baghban opposite Amitabh Bachchan as she didn't want to play mother of four kids at the age of 36?

Time of India

05-06-2025

Baghban is a cherished film in many Indian middle-class homes, praised for its emotional story and strong performances by
and
. But not many know that Hema almost rejected the role.
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In an old interview with Lehren Retro, she revealed that when director Ravi Chopra came to narrate the script at her home, her mother was also present — and that moment made her hesitant to say yes.
Hema Malini once shared that she was unsure about doing Baghban when Ravi Chopra offered her the role of a mother to four grown-up sons. She found it hard to imagine herself in that part. But her mother, who was present during the narration, insisted she take it up, saying the story was strong and the role would suit her well.
Though Hema had doubts, especially after being away from films for a while, her mother's encouragement convinced her to say yes.
Interestingly, the Sholay actress wasn't the only actor who had to be convinced to do Baghban. The role of Pooja Malhotra was first offered to Tabu. Although she liked the script, she turned it down, unwilling to play the mother of four children at just 36. She later starred opposite Amitabh Bachchan in Cheeni Kum. Even Big B wasn't the original choice—director Ravi Chopra had initially approached veteran actor
, who declined the role.