World · India Bureau
R Madhavan Auditioned for Shah Rukh Khan's Swades, Reveals Writer
Co-writer Amin Hajee disclosed that actor R Madhavan was considered for the lead role in the 2004 film Swades before Shah Rukh Khan was finalised. Hajee also revealed that Hrithik Roshan was approached with the script during the casting process.
LSN India ·
In a recent revelation about the casting of the 2004 film Swades, co-writer Amin Hajee disclosed that Tamil and Hindi film actor R Madhavan had auditioned for the lead role that eventually went to Shah Rukh Khan. The film, which followed the story of a Non-Resident Indian returning to his homeland, became a significant project in Shah Rukh Khan's career.
Hajee shared that the filmmakers had cast a wide net during the selection process. "We narrated the script to Hrithik Roshan as well," the co-writer stated, indicating that multiple prominent actors of that era were considered before the final decision was made.
Directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, Swades ultimately starred Shah Rukh Khan alongside Gayatri Joshi and became notable for its patriotic themes and technical narrative. The film's production involved consultations with NASA scientists and drew attention for its portrayal of India's space programme and rural development themes.
The revelation provides insight into the film industry's casting decisions and the competitive process that actors undergo for significant roles. Such disclosures about the behind-the-scenes casting process offer cinema enthusiasts a glimpse into how major film projects take shape.