EntertainmentPosted at: Sep 8 2025 11:21AM


Anil Kapoor reveals Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan were first choices for ‘Nayak’

Mumbai, Sep 8 (UNI) Actor Anil Kapoor has revealed that Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan were the original choices for the 2001 political action-drama Nayak, before the role eventually came to him.
Anil Kapoor’s Nayak, The Real Hero has completed 24 years since its release, sparking a wave of nostalgia among fans on social media.
Marking the milestone, Actor Anil Kapoor took to his Instagram handle to share his reflections and revealed an interesting anecdote, the role of Shivaji Rao Gaekwad was first offered to Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan before it eventually came to him.
"Some roles define you. Nayak was one of them. First offered to Aamir & Shah Rukh, but I knew I had to live this character... and I'm grateful Shankar sir trusted me," he wrote in the post.
He further gave a shout-out to Shah Rukh Khan, remembering how the 'Jawan' star praised his performance.
"I'll always cherish Shah Rukh's words on that stage: 'This role was meant for Anil.' Moments like these stay forever," he shared.
Anil Kapoor also added a carousel of pictures, including memorable scenes from the film. He added a few other snaps with SRK, showing the duo at the film's media events.
Directed by S. Shankar, Nayak went on to become one of Kapoor’s most iconic films, with his portrayal of Shivaji Rao gaining widespread appreciation. It was released in 2001.
The film revolves around the journey of a television presenter who unexpectedly assumes the role of chief minister for a single day, setting off a gripping tale of political drama and intrigue.
Alongside Anil Kapoor, the cast included stalwarts such as Amrish Puri, Paresh Rawal, Rani Mukerji, Johny Lever, Saurabh Shukla, and Shivaji Satam.
The actor’s revelation has sparked nostalgia among fans, many of whom took to social media to imagine how the film might have looked with SRK or Aamir in the lead.
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