September 30, 2025: Mumbai: In a surprising behind-the-scenes revelation, singer and television host Aditya Narayan shared that filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali initially envisioned Gangubai Kathiawadi with Rani Mukerji in the lead role, not Alia Bhatt, who eventually won a National Award for her performance.
Aditya Narayan, who briefly worked as an assistant director under Bhansali, recalled the moment during a recent interview. He mentioned that Bhansali had two scripts in hand at the time, Ram-Leela and Gangubai Kathiawadi, and was exploring casting options for both. According to Narayan, Rani Mukerji was being considered for the titular role of Gangubai during the early development phase.
Alia Bhatt’s Award-Winning Role etched by Bhansali Was Once Rani Mukerji’s
The anecdote adds a new layer to the film’s journey, which ultimately saw Alia Bhatt portray the powerful character based on Hussain Zaidi’s Mafia Queens of Mumbai. The film went on to become a box office success and earned Bhatt widespread acclaim.
Narayan also reflected on his own career setbacks, including a period of unemployment following the failure of Shaapit. His connection with Bhansali deepened when he was offered a chance to assist the director, a move that reignited his passion for filmmaking.
Bhansali is currently working on Love & War, starring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal, slated for release in 2026.