Not Saif Ali Khan, this is who Priyadarshan actually wanted to cast in Haiwaan

Elaborating further, the filmmaker revealed that while planning the remake of Oppam, Amitabh Bachchan was the only actor he could imagine as the blind protagonist. “I wanted to remake my 2016 hit Oppam, my film with Mohanlal. I could only think of Mr Bachchan for the role,” he said, adding that the idea did not move forward as Bachchan had already portrayed a similar character in the past. “I am still searching for that one script that will bring us together.”

ALSO READ | Why Arijit Singh’s retirement makes total sense: Exploitative Bollywood, and a fanbase bigger than Taylor Swift

Calling Amitabh Bachchan a constant source of inspiration, Priyadarshan said, “After more than 40 years of filmmaking, I sometimes feel it’s time to hang up my boots. Then I see Mr Bachchan, who continues to work for 18 hours a day despite doctors’ orders—and my batteries are instantly recharged.”

Priyadarshan officially announced Haiwaan last year, confirming Akshay Kumar’s addition to the cast.

Speaking to Pinkvilla, Priyadarshan revealed how Akshay came on board. “Originally, Akshay was not part of the film. I was planning to do it with Saif, and he was excited about the subject. We tried approaching other actors, but everyone kept saying no because it was a small role. They wanted changes,” he said.

He further shared, “While shooting Bhoot Bangla, I told Akshay that I didn’t think Haiwaan would happen because I couldn’t find the right person for the other role—even though it is as important as the hero’s. Akshay asked me what the role was about. I never imagined he would agree, but he asked if he could do it. I asked him, ‘Are you serious?’ and he said, ‘Yes, I like the thought and I trust you.’”