Archive · 6 Jun 2025
Jaanwar's Casting: Akshay Kumar Wasn't First Choice, Reveals Director
The movie 'Jaanwar' starring Akshay Kumar, almost starred other actors instead!
The director, Suneel Darshan, initially planned for Sunny Deol, but they had a disagreement.
Then, Ajay Devgn was close to getting the part.
But, one Sunday, Akshay Kumar called the director, hoping to be cast, even though his career wasn't doing well.
Darshan decided to give him a chance, and the film helped Akshay's career.
Karisma Kapoor was immediately on board, but Kajol had to opt out due to marriage plans, so Shilpa Shetty joined the cast.
Suneel Darshan revealed Akshay Kumar was not the original choice for 'Jaanwar'.
Sunny Deol was initially planned, but disagreements led to him not being cast.
Ajay Devgn was almost finalized before Akshay Kumar was cast.
Karisma Kapoor and Shilpa Shetty were eventually cast as female leads.
The film's release in 1999 marked a turning point for Akshay Kumar's career.
- Who
- Suneel Darshan, Akshay Kumar, Sunny Deol, Ajay Devgn, Karisma Kapoor, Kajol, Shilpa Shetty
- What
- Behind-the-scenes casting changes for the 1999 film 'Jaanwar'.
- When
- 1999 (film released), interview in 2025
- Where
- India
- Why
- To share the casting journey behind the film, including unexpected changes.
- Original Lead (Planned)
- Sunny Deol
- Second Choice (Almost Finalized)
- Ajay Devgn
- Release Year
- 1999
- Akshay's Career Stage
- Worst phase at the time of casting.
- Female Lead (Confirmed)
- Karisma Kapoor, Shilpa Shetty
- Original Female Lead
- Kajol
