Aamir Khan and Karisma Kapoor starrer Raja Hindustani was the highest-grossing Bollywood movie in the year 1996.
Raja Hindustani proved to be a career-changing movie for Karisma Kapoor. Before this movie, the actress was usually seen with actor Govinda in several movies.
In 1996, Aamir Khan and Karisma Kapoor delivered a resounding hit with Raja Hindustani, a film that not only dominated the box office, grossing Rs 76 crore worldwide but also earned critical acclaim. Karisma Kapoor, particularly, garnered praise for her lead role, ultimately winning the Filmfare Best Actress Award. However, what many may not know is that Karisma wasn’t the initial choice for the female lead – the role was initially offered to Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.
Aishwarya, who had catapulted to stardom after winning the Miss World title in 1994, was already fielding offers from leading producers and directors in both Tamil and Indian film industries before entering the world of pageantry. In a revealing 2012 Vogue interview, Aishwarya disclosed that she had four film offers even before her Miss World victory. She admitted, “I decided to participate in Miss India to step back from the film industry for a bit. If I hadn’t taken part in Miss India, Raja Hindustani would have been my first film.” However, fate had other plans, and she made her Bollywood debut with Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya in 1997, a year post-Raja Hindustani.
It’s worth noting that Juhi Chawla was also reportedly considered for the lead role but turned it down due to character demands. The mantle eventually fell on Karisma Kapoor’s shoulders, proving to be a career-defining moment for the actress. Before Raja Hindustani, Karisma was often seen alongside Govinda in movies like Saajan Chale Sasural, Coolie No. 1, Dulaara, and Raja Babu. Despite her prolific on-screen presence, she faced criticism for her acting skills and appearance.
Raja Hindustani altered that narrative, showcasing Karisma’s acting prowess and catapulting her to the forefront of Bollywood leading ladies. Directed by Dharmesh Darshan, the film’s success not only solidified Karisma’s position in the industry but also contributed significantly to her career trajectory.
In retrospect, the casting dynamics of Raja Hindustani played a pivotal role in its triumph, resonating with audiences and leaving an indelible mark on the careers of those involved.