Bhansali wanted me to play Rani Padmini in 'Padmaavat': Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil' actor reveals why Deepika Padukone was cast instead

Sanjay Leela Bhansali directorial Padmaavat created a drastic outrage in the world of cinema, prior to its release. It was the center of controversy for months with India’s right-wing nationalists riled up to save the honour of the fictional Queen Padmavati and the Muslim community offended due to the portrayal of Alauddin Khilji as a heartless, warheaded Sultan. Nonetheless, it managed to garner a worldwide revenue of over INR5 billion.

PHOTO: BOLLYWOOD LIFE

What's interesting to know though, is that the death threats that actor Deepika Padukone received could've actually been faced by Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, reported India Today.

That's right, in a recent interview, the Ae Dil Hai Mushkil actor revealed that the director's first choice was indeed none other than Aishwarya. "He didn't get the Bajirao for me. Then he wanted me to do Padmaavat, but could not get the Khilji for me at the casting time. So, that's how it didn't happen."

PHOTO: INDIAN EXPRESS

She added, "So, at the end of the day, you need to see the casting. If the casting is not happening, then sometimes, it doesn't come together. The intention was always there to work together, but it didn't happen. We both love working with each other, so let's see, whenever it is meant to be."

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According to reports, Bhansali wanted to make Bajirao Mastaani with Aishwarya and Salman Khan, but due to growing animosity between the two, it did not happen. He eventually ended up casting Ranveer and Deepika instead.

PHOTO: INDIA TODAY

Aishwarya has previously worked with Bhansali in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Devdas.

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