Archive · 30 Sep 2025
Aditya Narayan Reveals Rani Mukerji Was First Choice for Gangubai
Singer Aditya Narayan shared that Rani Mukerji was originally planned to play the lead in the film 'Gangubai Kathiawadi', directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
He assisted Bhansali and was present during the early stages.
Bhansali was also working on another project, 'Ram-Leela', simultaneously.
The project with Rani didn't happen, and eventually, Alia Bhatt was cast in the film, earning the National Award.
'Gangubai Kathiawadi' is based on a chapter from 'Mafia Queens of Mumbai' and was a commercial success.
Aditya Narayan revealed Rani Mukerji was initially considered for 'Gangubai Kathiawadi'.
The film was directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
Alia Bhatt was ultimately cast and won a National Award.
'Gangubai Kathiawadi' earned Rs 211.5 crore.
The film is inspired by 'Mafia Queens of Mumbai'.
- Who
- Aditya Narayan
- What
- Revealed Rani Mukerji was first choice for Gangubai Kathiawadi
- When
- Before Alia Bhatt's casting
- Where
- On a YouTube channel
- Why
- To share details about the casting process
Original Casting Plan
Actual Casting
Lead Actress
Original Casting Plan
Rani Mukerji was the original choice for the lead role.
Actual Casting
Alia Bhatt played the lead role and received a National Award.
- Film
- Gangubai Kathiawadi
- Director
- Sanjay Leela Bhansali
- Original Lead
- Rani Mukerji
- Current Lead
- Alia Bhatt
- Box Office
- Rs 211.5 crore
- Based On
- Mafia Queens of Mumbai
Sources
Aditya Narayan reveals Shaapit’s failure left him jobless for a year; recalls working with Sanjay Leela Bhansali as an AD: ‘He wanted Rani Mukerji for Gangubai’
Not Alia Bhatt, But Rani Mukerji Was First Choice For Gangubai Kathiawadi, Confirms Aditya Narayan
'Not Alia Bhatt, Rani Mukerji was Sanjay Leela Bhansali's first choice for Gangubai Kathiawadi,' reveals this Salman Khan co-star
