Movies rejected by Aamir Khan - DDJ to Bajrangi Bhaijaan

Bollywood history is replete with tales of legendary roles that might have turned out quite differently. Aamir Khan, famous for his perfectionism and picky film choices, has famously rejected a number of films that went on to become milestones for other actors. Here's a glimpse of some films that Aamir rejected.

Sooraj Barjatya's family drama 'Hum Aapke Hain Koun.!' was first offered to Aamir Khan, who rejected playing Prem since he felt that the script was not strong enough. The role was then given to Salman Khan, whose on-screen chemistry with Madhuri Dixit and natural good looks contributed to making the movie a blockbuster. The film, a celebration of Indian wedding customs and family ties, was the highest-grossing Indian film at the time and revitalized Salman's career, making Prem one of his favorites.

Amir Khan was also offered the role of Raj in 'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge,' but he turned it down, supposedly not believing the script was strong enough. Shah Rukh Khan finally accepted the role, and the movie's tale of two NRIs falling in love on a European vacation became a phenomenon in India. DDLJ raised the bar for romance in Bollywood, took home many awards, and cemented Shah Rukh as the "King of Romance."

Aamir Khan was offered the part of Raj Aryan Malhotra in ‘Mohabbatein,’ but he declined, perhaps because of scheduling issues or artistic differences (though reasons are less well-documented). Shah Rukh Khan took the role, playing a music teacher who defies Amitabh Bachchan's autocratic principal. The movie's love vs. tradition themes appealed to viewers, and it became a huge success and further solidified Shah Rukh's star status.

Aamir Khan was approached for the lead in 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan' but turned it down, allegedly because he didn't relate to the story then. Salman Khan took over as Pavan, a staunch Lord Hanuman believer who assists a speechless Pakistani girl in reuniting with her family. The emotional story and cross-border theme of the film made it a huge box office hit, with Salman's performance receiving universal praise.

Aamir Khan was also approached to play the role of Rahul in 'Dil To Pagal Hai,' a musical romance about destiny, friendship, and love within a dance troupe. He rejected it, for reasons presumably including creative differences or an aversion to the musical genre. Shah Rukh Khan played the role, with Madhuri Dixit and Karisma Kapoor. The film became a musical blockbuster, with its songs and performances still remembered today, and it won several awards.