Aamir Said ‘Pack Up!’: Why Milind Soman Was Dropped from Jo Jeeta Before the Race Began

 

Director Mansoor Khan has opened up on the stormy production of the classic film Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, revealing that Aamir Khan was instrumental in saving the production from going under. Milind Soman was initially cast in the role that was later immortalized by Deepak Tijori, but the unprofessional attitude of the original cast came close to sabotaging the film, with a huge rethink required.

 

Key Highlights:

 

Nearly 60–70% of the film was re-shot when Mansoor Khan realized that he had made an incorrect casting choice and that the initial cast like Milind Soman were unprofessional and troublesome.

 

Production was badly affected, with Mansoor Khan admitting that he was on the verge of a breakdown, waking up in the dead of night crying due to the pressure.

 

Aamir Khan stepped in and sternly instructed Mansoor, "Throw these guys out. We'll make a good film," and Mansoor was replaced with a new cast and the project was re-launched.

 

Once replaced, the deposed actors, including Soman, attempted to return when the luck of the film picked up, but Mansoor remained firm in his position.

 

The recasting, especially Deepak Tijori's replacement of Rishi Kapoor, is the reason why the film became the classic that it is known today.

 

Prospects: The genuine admissions put into perspective how daring decisions and teamwork—Aamir Khan's support especially—overcame the issues of a blemished shoot and made it a cult classic. The movie is evidence that the right team and humility are the keys to successful filmmaking.

 

Sources: Indian Express, Times of India, Hindustan Times