5 Sanjay Leela Bhansali blockbuster films rejected by top actors

Arshi Khanam

Missed opportunities

Sanjay Leela Bhansali is a highly talented filmmaker of the Hindi cinema. Many actors crave to feature in his films. However, there are top Bollywood actors who rejected his blockbuster films.

Shah Rukh Khan:Padmaavat

Shah Rukh Khan rejected the villain role of Khilji in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's epic period film. Later, Ranveer Singh took the role and catapulted to fame. 

Kareena: Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam

Kareena Kapoor Khan was the first choice for Nandini's role opposite Salman and Ajay Devgn. Later, Aishwarya did the role.

Kareena: Ram Leela

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's blockbuster romance drama Ram Leela was envisioned with Kareena. After she rejected the offer, Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh starred in the title roles. 

Deepika: Gangubai Kathiawadi

Deepika Padukone was the first choice for Sanjay Leela Bhansali's critically acclaimed blockbuster film. After she rejected the offer, Alia Bhatt took the opportunity. 

Prabhas: Padmaavat

Telugu actor Prabhas was reportedly offered Shahid Kapoor's role in the film but he turned down the offer.

Aishwarya: Bajirao Mastani

Aishwarya Rai rejected the lead role due to some differences with Bhansali's initial choice of male leads.