Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan shared his astonishment when his father, Rakesh Roshan, informed him that he would be starring in “Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai.” Hrithik initially thought the script was meant for established icons like Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, or Aamir Khan.
Directed by Rakesh Roshan, the 2000 hit marked Hrithik’s remarkable debut 25 years ago, and in honor of this milestone, the film is returning to theaters. A special screening on Thursday evening gathered enthusiastic fans from around the country to relive the classic, which also featured Ameesha Patel. During a Q&A session, Hrithik looked back on the film’s casting process.
Having previously worked as an assistant director on his father’s films, including “King Uncle,” “Karan Arjun,” and “Koyla,” Hrithik was involved in discussions about the storyline before the casting took shape.
He recounted how he expressed doubts about the choice of actors for the role, only for his father to reveal that the film was intended for him.
“It was a shock when my dad said that he’d be making this film with me. At first, I thought it was written for one of those big stars. There was Shah Rukh, Aamir, and Salman—so I assumed it was for one of them. Halfway through our conversation, I voiced my concerns.
“I said to my dad, ‘This isn’t going to work for these stars. I’ve seen them in their debut films,’ and he told me, ‘Shut up. I’m making this film with you.’ It was definitely surprising,” he recalled.
As Hrithik turned 51 on Friday, he reflected on going to his room, contemplating how he would manage the role.
“He (Rakesh Roshan) knocked on my door and asked, ‘What’s wrong?’ I shrugged it off. Then he said, ‘Be ready in four months.’ I asked for six, and that was the start of my journey,” Hrithik recounted.
Fast forward 25 years, Hrithik expressed some skepticism about the re-release of the film, humorously hoping that audiences would not judge him harshly again.
“I’ll be scrutinized once more. I genuinely hope you still enjoy the film, even after so long. You may think, ‘What were we considering?’ I just hope your opinions about me don’t change after watching it again. I was almost wishing no one would revisit it because ‘the truth can come out anytime.’ But I’m here to celebrate you all and your affection,” he stated.
Over the years, Hrithik has established himself as one of the most versatile figures in Hindi cinema, winning acclaim for his roles in films like “Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham,” “Koi… Mil Gaya,” “Lakshya,” “Dhoom 2,” “Jodhaa Akbar,” “Krrish,” “Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara,” “Super 30,” and “War.”
Reflecting on “Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara,” he expressed pride in the film’s timelessness.
Widely regarded as one of the finest dancers in Bollywood, Hrithik noted that “Main Aisa Kyun Hoon” from “Lakshya,” choreographed by Prabhu Deva, was his toughest dance challenge to date.
“Prabhu Deva showed me a choreography style he wanted, and I told him I would need two months to prepare. I’ve asked for this kind of time from many people, but no one has ever granted it—except for him. He provided two months and assigned someone to assist me consistently leading up to the shoot. That’s how we made it work,” he explained.
Looking back on his quarter-century in the industry, Hrithik admitted that he doesn’t fully grasp his on-screen persona and prefers the identity of an actor over a star.
“That’s just my profession; it feels more real. I experience fears and anxieties like everyone else. While some embrace the star lifestyle, I cherish being an actor.
“However, the privilege of being a star is the love I receive from fans, and I understand the responsibility that comes with it. I appreciate that it holds significance, but my true self is what matters. I strive to be a good person, and I embrace that identity,” he pointed out.
Hrithik wants his fans to appreciate him for who he truly is, rather than simply for his on-screen roles.
“I’ve always communicated openly with my fans during interviews. I believe you connect with me more for who I am than for the character I portray on screen. That’s what comforts me—knowing you are here to speak with me and not just the on-screen representation,” he shared.
Hrithik’s upcoming project is “War 2,” the sequel to his 2019 action thriller. He revealed that he is currently working on a dance sequence for the film, which will also feature South Indian star Jr NTR.
“I’m gearing up for a major dance number. (I hope) my legs hold up,” he added. (PTI)
