Jodhaa Akbar
Ashutosh Gowariker offered Shah Rukh Khan the role of Akbar in Jodhaa Akbar, but he turned it down, reportedly citing discomfort with the shooting location and a desire to spend more time with his family. Later, Hrithik Roshan played the role and garnered acclaim.
Lagaan
Shah Rukh Khan was approached to play the role of Bhuvan in Lagaan, which was eventually portrayed by Aamir Khan. Apparently, due to scheduling conflicts, he couldn’t take on the role, and the film went on to earn critical acclaim, including an Oscar nomination.
Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai
Shah Rukh Khan was considered for the lead role of Rohit in Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai, but he reportedly turned down the project for personal reasons. Hrithik Roshan was cast instead, and his debut film became a huge success.
Rang De Basanti
The role of Ajay Rathod in Rang De Basanti was offered to Shah Rukh Khan, but he allegedly had to decline due to overlapping schedules with other commitments. R. Madhavan eventually took on the role, earning praise for his performance.
3 Idiots
The iconic role of Ranchhoddas ‘Rancho’ Shamaldas Chanchad in 3 Idiots was offered to Shah Rukh Khan, but he reportedly turned it down after suffering a sudden injury. Aamir Khan stepped in, and the film went on to become a massive blockbuster.
Munna Bhai MBBS
Shah Rukh Khan was initially offered the role of Munna Bhai, but he allegedly turned it down due to undergoing spine surgery at the time. Unable to commit to the immediate shooting schedule, the role was later given to Sanjay Dutt, who made the film a huge success.
Slumdog Millionaire
Shah Rukh Khan was offered the role of the game show host, Prem Kumar, in Slumdog Millionaire but reportedly had to turn it down due to prior commitments and scheduling conflicts. Anil Kapoor was later chosen and received acclaim for his performance.
Ek Tha Tiger
Shah Rukh Khan was initially offered the lead role in Ek Tha Tiger, a film that was later performed by Salman Khan. SRK reportedly declined the role due to creative differences and scheduling issues, allowing Salman Khan to become a major part of its success.
Jolly LLB 3
Shah Rukh Khan was initially offered a role in Jolly LLB 3, which was later played by Arshad Warsi. Allegedly, due to a difference in creative direction and scheduling issues, SRK declined the role, and Arshad Warsi was finalised instead.