Salman Khan is one of Bollywood’s biggest stars, known for his action-packed roles, shirtless charm and huge fan following, started his career with Biwi Ho To Aisi (1988) but attain fame with Maine Pyar Kiya (1989). Over the years, he delivered many blockbusters like Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! (1994), Wanted (2009), Dabangg (2010), Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015), and Sultan (2016). His films are known for their catchy songs, mass appeal, and strong emotional connect. Interestingly, even Bhai makes choices that surprise us. Here are some films Salman Khan turned down which later became superhits with others actors.
1. Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995)
Genre :- Romantic, Comedy ,Family Drama
Director :- Aditya Chopra
DDLJ a timeless love story set against the backdrop of Indian culture and family expectations, lightening up the adventures journey of Raj and Simran from playful strangers to soulmates. For this super- hit romantic drama , Aditya Chopra had initially offered the role of Raj Malhotra to Salman Khan to which he declined and later the role went to Shah Rukh Khan turning out to be SRK’s great success and a timeless classic.
2.Ghajini (2008)
Genre:- Thriller, Mysterious , Romantic Drama
Director:- A.R. Murugadoss
Ghajini a thrill narrative packed with action, love, and suspense revolves around a man with short-term memory loss who fights to find his partner’s killer. At first, Salman was considered for the lead role in this psychological motion . However, he turned down , and Aamir Khan stepped in, making the film a massive hit.
3.Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003)
Genre :- Romantic ,Comedy Drama
Director :- Nikhil Advani
Kal Ho Naa Ho is a heart-warming tale of cheerful stranger who brings happiness to sorrow hearts and make everyone feel and live the beauty of each day to the fullest . A perfect blend of love , friendship and emotion. Salman Khan , was the first choice of the director Nikhil Advani for the role of Aman Mathur but he rejected , which was later played by Shah Rukh Khan imprinting emotions deeply on the hearts of millions.
4.Baazigar (1993)
Genre :-Crime, Thrill, Romantic Drama
Director:-Abbas–Mustan
Baazigar a thrill motion full of love, revenge, betrayal and never-ending twists , where nothing unfolds as it seems to be . A depiction of how a simple and charming man hides a dark secret, leaving you guessing the next move at every moment . Role of anti- hero was first offered to Salman Khan to which he denied believing it was too negative. The role was then taken by SRK marking a memorable point in his career.
5. Talaash (2012)
Genre :- Suspense, Thrill, Romantic Drama
Director :-Reema Kagti
Talaash is a mysterious and emotional journey of a cop working out to solve a star’s death case while facing his own grief. The film weaves suspense, secrets, and a twist at every turn. Salman Khan was reportedly offered the lead role in this psychological thrill which were eventually landing to Amir Khan. He turned it down, and the role went to Aamir Khan, who received praise for his performance.
Read more – Salman Khan Movies That Were Never Released
6.Chak De! India (2007)
Genre :- Sports ,Action Drama
Director:- Shimit Amin
Chak De! India is an inspiring tale of a coach who helps out a team of girls to believe in themselves and play for the country. The motion films the power of unity, dreams, and never giving up. Salman Khan was initially courted for the role of Kabir Khan, the coach of the Indian women’s hockey team, but he refused and Shah Rukh Khan took over the role, delivering a critically acclaimed performance
7. Josh (2000)
Genre :- Action ,Romance, Musical Drama
Director :- Mansoor Khan
Josh set in backdrop of a lively town portrays a powerful story of rivalry, love, and sibling bonds and how everything takes a turn when love blooms between rivals. Salman Khan was approached for the role as Max but he stepped back which later filmed leading Shah Rukh Khan turning out to be another massive hit for him.
8. Jodha Akbar (2008)
Genre :- Historical ,Romantic Drama
Director :-Ashutosh Gowariker
Jodha Akbar a timeless masterpiece depicts a beautiful narrative which spins around a Mughal emperor and Rajput Princess and the bond the two shares, lightning on how love can bridge the gap between different cultures and traditions. Salman was approached for the role of emperor to which he refused , later Hrithik Roshan stepped into the shoes and received the critical acclaim for his portrayal as Akbar
9. Rang De Basanti (2006)
Genre :- Musical, Thriller, Political Drama
Director :- Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra
Rang De Basanti is a compelling story of college friends who awaken to patriotism while performing in a film on freedom fighters. Showcasing how their fun turns into a fight for justice, transforming their lives forever. Interestingly, Salman Khan reportedly turned down a role in the film, which eventually became a breakthrough for its amazing cast, including Aamir Khan.
10.Zero (2018)
Genre:- Aanand L. Rai
Director :- Romantic Comedy Drama
Zero is a unique story of a short man with big dreams who finds love and purpose in unexpected ways. It’s a blend of romance, drama, and self-discovery with a touch of magic. Salman Khan was considered for the role of Bauua Singh. He declined, and the role went to Shah Rukh Khan, who portrayed the character in a film that poured various reviews but was notable for its aspiring storytelling.
Interestingly, several films initially offered to Salman Khan, such as Chak De! India and Kal Ho Naa Ho, ended up becoming big hits with Shah Rukh Khan. It’s almost like Salman’s rejections turned into SRK’s golden roles!
Your Turn!
Which movie you feel Bhai aka Salman Khan would have played the main lead or character more beautifully? Let us know in the comment section.
