Not Nargis, Deepika Padukone Was Imtiaz's First Choice For Ranbir's Rockstar; Know Why
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On his personal blog in 2019, Imtiaz recalled their first meeting and how convinced he was that Deepika Padukone was perfect for the role of Heer.
Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone may have parted ways personally, but their on-screen chemistry continues to be cherished by Bollywood fans. From Bachna Ae Haseeno to Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani and Tamasha, their pair has delivered hits that left lasting impressions. But did you know that Deepika was also supposed to be Ranbir's 'Heer' in Rockstar?
Yes, Imtiaz Ali, who directed the 2011 cult film Rockstar, had originally envisioned Deepika as the female lead. On his personal blog in 2019, Imtiaz recalled their first meeting and how convinced he was that she was perfect for the role.
'She got off the car at the hotel porch and looked at me. I immediately knew that this is the girl I have come to meet. She also immediately knew that I am the director she had come to meet because she had those eyes, that looked as if they know," he wrote.
He continued, 'None of Deepika's movies had released till then. I had come to meet her for Rockstar. I wanted her for Rockstar, but the movie did not get made till many years later. I worked with her in other movies. Many things happened over many years at many places, all of which I might forget, but I will never forget the girl who stepped out of the car at the hotel and looked at me as if she knew."
Eventually, the role of Heer Kaul went to Nargis Fakhri, who made her debut opposite Ranbir's intense and transformative portrayal of Jordan. Despite criticism of Nargis' inexperience, Rockstar became a landmark film in Ranbir's career and is considered one of his finest performances.
As for Deepika and Imtiaz, they went on to collaborate on Love Aaj Kal (2009) and Tamasha (2015). They also worked together on Cocktail (2012), where Imtiaz wrote the screenplay while Homi Adajania directed. Despite missing out on Rockstar, Deepika carved her own space in the industry with powerhouse performances in multiple hits.
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