Mukesh Chhabra reveals 3 actors rejected Akshaye Khanna’s role; 1200-1300 auditions held for Sara Arjun’s role

The casting of Dhurandhar offers a glimpse into the unpredictable nature of the film industry, where some actors walk away from opportunities while others compete intensely to be part of the same project. Casting director Mukesh Chhabra recently shared how both these dynamics played out during the film’s casting process.

3 Actors Rejected Akshaye Khanna's role

One of the major revelations was that a crucial role eventually portrayed by Akshaye Khanna was initially offered to three prominent actors. According to Chhabra, two of them were from Bollywood and one from the South film industry.

He stated, "I can’t take any names but 2-3 actors had said no for his role. I am sure they are regretting that decision today. An actor from South and two from Bollywood gave very weird logic. They said that this is an ensemble cast and its actually Ranveer’s film, but Aditya moves on from negative thoughts quickly."

All three declined the role for what he described as “different reasons.” While he did not disclose their names, the casting decision eventually worked in the film’s favour, as the role went on to be associated with Akshaye Khanna.

Casting Sara Arjun opposite Ranveer Singh

While some actors chose not to be part of the film, the response to other roles was completely different. Chhabra revealed that several actresses were keen to star opposite Ranveer Singh in Dhurandhar.

Many of them directly approached director Aditya Dhar, expressing interest in the film. This created a competitive environment for the female lead role, underlining both the project’s appeal and Ranveer Singh’s popularity.

He said, "Aditya ko bhi bahut saare log message kar rahe the ki unhe Ranveer ke opposite cast hona hai, mujhe bhi messages aarahe the. But I told Aditya very clearly, hume ek aisa face chahiye jo sirf uss jagah ka lage, koi purana baggage naa ho"

Why Sara Arjun got the role?

Despite the high level of interest, the team ultimately cast Sara Arjun in the role. Chhabra explained that the decision was based on her suitability for the character rather than her familiarity as a face.

"Toh completely fresh face hona chahiye tha. Though Sara had done films before as a child actor, but she had never done full-fledged roles in Bollywood films. We were clear ki agar hum uss duniya main jaa rah hain, toh ekdum surprise hona chahiye kj ladki kaun hai. Hume itne auditions kiya, 1200-1300 audition kiye aur fir humne Sara ko final audition kiya. We were also craving for a new face" said Mukesh Chhabra. 

Her audition played a key role in the final choice. When Aditya Dhar saw her test, he was impressed and curious to know more about her, which helped seal the decision in her favour.