Casting Curveball: Nayak Was Almost a Khan-tastic Tale

As the cult political thriller Nayak: The Real Hero celebrates its 24th anniversary, actor Anil Kapoor has stirred nostalgia and surprise with a heartfelt revelation. In a social media post that quickly went viral, Kapoor shared that the role of Shivaji Rao Gaekwad—an ordinary man who becomes Chief Minister for a day—was originally offered to Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan before landing in his lap. The film, directed by S. Shankar and released on September 7, 2001, has since become a defining moment in Kapoor’s career and a fan favorite across generations.

 

Here’s a deep dive into the behind-the-scenes casting story and the legacy of Nayak.

 

1. The Casting That Could Have Been  

- Anil Kapoor revealed that both Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan were approached for the lead role in Nayak  

- Aamir reportedly declined due to a communication gap with the director, while Shah Rukh had recently played a similar role in Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani and opted out to avoid repetition  

- Kapoor expressed gratitude to director S. Shankar for trusting him with the role, stating that he felt destined to live the character of Shivaji Rao

 

2. Shah Rukh’s Compliment That Stayed Forever  

- At the film’s audio release event in 2001, Shah Rukh Khan publicly praised Anil Kapoor’s performance, saying the role was meant for him  

- Kapoor recalled this moment fondly in his anniversary post, calling it one of the most cherished compliments of his career  

- The throwback pictures shared included SRK, AR Rahman, and Kapoor together at the event, adding emotional weight to the memory

 

3. The Role That Defined a Career  

- Kapoor described Shivaji Rao as a role that shaped his identity as an actor  

- The character’s transformation from a television journalist to a reformist leader resonated deeply with audiences  

- Kapoor’s portrayal was lauded for its intensity, sincerity, and relatability, making Nayak one of his most memorable performances

 

4. Fan Reactions and Cultural Impact  

- Fans flooded social media with tributes, calling Nayak an underrated gem and Kapoor’s best work  

- Many praised the film’s relevance even today, citing its themes of accountability, corruption, and citizen empowerment  

- Comments ranged from personal anecdotes to declarations of admiration, with users saying they’ve watched the film countless times

 

5. Legacy of Nayak  

- Directed by S. Shankar, Nayak was a Hindi remake of his Tamil hit Mudhalvan  

- The film starred Rani Mukerji, Amrish Puri, Paresh Rawal, and Johnny Lever in pivotal roles  

- Its gripping storyline, powerful dialogues, and chartbuster music contributed to its cult status  

- Despite moderate box office success at the time, Nayak has grown in stature over the years, often cited in discussions about impactful political cinema

 

6. What Could Have Been vs What Was  

- The revelation about SRK and Aamir adds a layer of intrigue to the film’s history  

- While fans speculate how the film might have looked with either of the Khans, most agree that Kapoor’s performance was irreplaceable  

- The anecdote underscores how casting decisions can shape cinematic legacy and how some roles truly find their rightful owner

 

7. Looking Ahead  

- Kapoor’s post not only celebrated the past but also hinted at the timelessness of storytelling that blends entertainment with social commentary  

- As Indian cinema continues to evolve, Nayak remains a benchmark for films that dare to imagine change through the lens of the common man

 

Sources: Times of India, News18, India Tribune