When we think of the 1995 Bollywood classic Akele Hum Akele Tum, it’s hard to imagine anyone but Aamir Khan in the lead role. However, it may come as a surprise to learn that the iconic actor’s looks almost became a hindrance to him being cast in the film.
In this article, we’ll delve into the surprising reason why Aamir Khan almost didn’t star in Akele Hum Akele Tum, and how he overcame this obstacle to deliver a convincing performance that became an integral part of the movie’s success.
Akele Hum Akele Tum, the 1995 musical drama, is widely considered a classic. The film tells a beautiful story about the bond between a father and son, with the music of the movie becoming extremely popular. The movie starred Aamir Khan and Manisha Koirala as parents to a 6-year-old son.
However, Aamir’s looks initially made him an unlikely choice for the lead role. Aamir’s cousin, Mansoor Khan, who directed the movie, initially wanted to cast Anil Kapoor and Madhuri Dixit as the lead pair. Having become one of the most bankable onscreen couples after delivering hits like Parinda, Jamai Raja, and Beta, Mansoor wanted to sign them.
Despite having worked with his cousin in Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak and Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, Mansoor was initially hesitant to cast Aamir in the lead role. He reportedly told Aamir that his “pink cheeks and pink lips” made him look too boyish to play the father of a 6-year-old child.
Mansoor Reveals Akele Hum Akele Tum Secret
Mansoor approached Anil Kapoor and Madhuri Dixit for the lead roles, and while Anil Kapoor liked the script and agreed to be a part of Akele Hum Akele Tum, Madhuri turned down the offer. Only after Madhuri refused did Mansoor decide to cast Aamir in the lead role, opposite Manisha Koirala.
Aamir Khan did full justice to the role and convincingly portrayed a father in the movie. The song Akele Hum Akele Tum, picturized on Aamir and his on-screen son, played by Master Adil, became a key point attributing to the film’s success.
Interestingly, Akele Hum Akele Tum was partly inspired by the 1979 Hollywood film Kramer vs. Kramer, starring Dustin Hoffman and Meryl Streep.
In conclusion, the movie Akele Hum Akele Tum, despite its initial hurdles, went on to become a big hit, with Aamir Khan’s convincing portrayal of a father being a significant contributor to its success.