Subhash Ghai says Pardes was first offered to Madhuri Dixit, reveals why Mahima Choudhry got the role

Filmmaker Subhash Ghai has revealed that he first narrated the story of Pardes to Madhuri Dixit, but later decided to go for a new face, rather than an established star. Monday marked the 25th anniversary of the film’s release. Starring Mahima Choudhry and Shah Rukh Khan in lead roles, the film was Subhash’s Ghai’s directorial. (Also read: Subhash Ghai asked Shah Rukh Khan to ‘avoid his romantic side’ in Pardes)

In an interview that he did for his acting school Whistling Woods International, Subhash said, “I initially narrated the story and the character of Kusum Ganga to Madhuri Dixit and she liked it the story. Madhuri was already a big star by that time. People in my office also suggested we take her.”

He added, “But when I elaborated on it and wrote the complete characterisation, – a young and innocent village girl . A girl who sees an airplane in the sky and thinks of going to America, a girl who wants to go to the US because her friends have also been married there…someone who dreams of being married and going to America. But she also is innocence of an adolescent girl. I realised I would not get that innocence from a star and a newcomer would easily do it. Mahima Chouhdry did it.”

The filmmaker also said Mahima’s innocent laughter impressed him and he decided to take her. He said that people in his office suggested he should get stars, so the project becomes bigger and earns more money, but he stuck with his choice.

Subhash Ghai also that said Shah Rukh Khan was not initially ready to ditch his jeans and flamboyant shirts, and wear trousers for his character. “Shah Rukh ko takleef thi ki film me trouser kyu pehna rahe (SRK had a problem wearing trousres), why not jeans?”

Sharing the interview, Subhash tweeted, “Sharing my real experiences with you in casting my stars in my film #PARDES released on 8 Aug 1997. Celebrating its silver jubilee as it’s still one of the most favourite film for youngsters n families on its 25 th year today. Please WATCH. “

He also shared a video of Mahima thanking fans and the crew for the film and the success that came her way through it. No one enjoyed the success of film # PARDES celebrating silver jubilee year this week as she shares with me. She still earns good money every month by attending brand events all india with her song I LOVE MY INDIA n filmfare award 4 best actress. She deserves. She is brave.”