Nov 10, 2025

Lagaan to Jodhaa Akbar: 9 films which Shah Rukh Khan rejected

Kriti Sonali

Films rejected by Shah Rukh Khan

Here's a list of some superhit films that Shah Rukh Khan turned down.

Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai (2000)

Rakesh Roshan initially considered SRK for the lead role. He refused, and Hrithik Roshan’s debut made history.

Lagaan (2001)

SRK was the first choice to play Bhuvan in Lagaan. He declined due to his busy schedule, and Aamir Khan stepped in. The film went on to earn an Oscar nomination.

Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. (2003)

The role of Munna was initially offered to Shah Rukh Khan. Due to health and scheduling issues, Shah Rukh opted out and Sanjay Dutt's portrayal became iconic.

3 Idiots (2009)

SRK was approached to play Rancho before Aamir Khan. He reportedly rejected it because of prior commitments. The film became one of India’s biggest hits ever!

Rang De Basanti (2006)

Shah Rukh was offered the role of Flight Lieutenant Ajay Rathod. After SRK turned it down due to date clashes, R. Madhavan played the memorable part.

Jodhaa Akbar (2008)

Jodhaa Akbar (2008) Ashutosh Gowariker wanted Shah Rukh as Emperor Akbar. But SRK refused due to scheduling and health concerns and Hrithik Roshan eventually aced the role.

Slumdog Millionaire (2008)

Slumdog Millionaire (2008) Director Danny Boyle wanted SRK to play the quiz host. SRK felt the role was “too negative” and turned it down. Anil Kapoor took over, and the film won 8 Oscars.

Robot (2010)

Before Rajinikanth, Robot (Enthiran) was offered to SRK. He reportedly backed out because of creative differences over the film’s scale and script.

Ek Tha Tiger (2012)

Yash Raj Films first approached SRK for the RAW agent role. He said no and Salman Khan took it on, and it turned into a hit franchise.

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