‘I don't bother much before saying no': Kajol on turning down Aamir Khan's 3 Idiots
From redefining mainstream heroines in the 1990s to experimenting with her roles, Kajol has always been known for her boldness. However, in a recent promotional interview, the celebrated actress made a surprising confession: she once turned down 3 Idiots, a film that later became one of the biggest blockbusters in Indian cinema history.
Speaking to Pinkvilla, Kajol was asked whether turning down major projects ever comes with regret. True to her no-nonsense style, she shared that saying no is never a struggle for her, not even for high-stakes films. Among those rejections? 3 Idiots, Rajkumar Hirani's cultural phenomenon that starred
Aamir Khan
, Kareena Kapoor, R Madhavan, and Sharman Joshi. The actress was offered the role of Pia, which later went to Kareena Kapoor Khan.
Despite the film's staggering success, Kajol insisted she doesn't believe in looking back. She added that every film finds the actor it's meant for. 'I think that I've done very well for myself without them,' she added.
Who else rejected Rajkumar Hirani's movie?
Interestingly, Kajol wasn't the only A-lister who turned down the film.
Shah Rukh Khan
had also been approached to star in 3 Idiots but passed on it — a decision he later joked about on Koffee With Karan, calling himself the 'fourth idiot' for letting it go.
Anushka Sharma
, too, had auditioned for the project but didn't land the part.
About 3 Idiots
Ultimately, the 2009 blockbuster made history, becoming the first Indian film to cross Rs 300 crore at the domestic box office and earning a permanent place in pop culture with its satire on the education system and memorable catchphrases. Directed by Rajkumar Hirani and co-written by Abhijat Joshi, the movie is based loosely on Chetan Bhagat's Five Point Someone. It starred Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, Omi Vaidya, with Kareena Kapoor and Boman Irani in key roles. Fun fact: Aamir's character was inspired by innovator Sonam Wangchuk, and the film even features real-life Indian inventions.
About Kajol's upcoming work
Kajol, meanwhile, is ready to explore darker themes in Maa, a Vishal Furia directorial produced by Ajay Devgn and Kumar Mangat Pathak. Slated to release on June 27, the film is reportedly linked to the Shaitaan universe and marks a bold departure for the actress, who will be seen in a never-before-seen avatar. Kajol has worked with Aamir Khan in films like Fanaa and Ishq.
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