Ameesha Patel Reveals: Rejected from 'Lagaan' for 'Educated Eyes', Cast in 'Gadar' for Same Reason

Bollywood actress Ameesha Patel has made a significant revelation regarding the early days of her career. After becoming an overnight sensation with Hrithik Roshan in 'Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai', Ameesha shared that she was originally selected for Aamir Khan's blockbuster 'Lagaan' but was later dropped from the project. Interestingly, the very physical traits and personality that led to her exit from 'Lagaan' became the reason she was cast as Sakina in Sunny Deol's 'Gadar: Ek Prem Katha'.

The Reason for Rejection from 'Lagaan': 'Educated Eyes' and Glowing Skin

In an interview with Bollywood Bubble, Ameesha Patel disclosed that she had auditioned for 'Lagaan' and was successfully selected. She had even blocked her dates for the film. Recalling the incident, she said, "While I was shooting for 'Kaho Naa.., while pyaar Hai' in New Zealand, my manager called to inform me that he was releasing the dates for 'Lagaan'.

According to Ameesha, Gowariker believed her skin was too glowing and her personality appeared highly educated, which might not have translated well for a rural character. Consequently, she was removed from the film despite having already committed her schedule to it.

How the Same Traits Secured the Role of Sakina in 'Gadar'

Ameesha explained that her 'educated personality' was exactly what the makers of 'Gadar' were looking for. She stated, "The character of Sakina was that of a shy, well-educated, and politically smart girl coming from a political background.

When Ameesha questioned the producer about why she was chosen, they referenced a specific dialogue spoken by Sunny Deol's character, Tara Singh. " They were searching for a face that looked like the 'moon'—possessing innocence and a certain radiance (noor). Also, they required an actress with the body language of an educated person. The producer told her that while acting can be taught or refined through retakes, the natural aura of an educated individual is difficult to replicate.

June 14, 2001: The Historic Box Office Clash

Ameesha Patel highlighted the fact that both 'Lagaan' and 'Gadar' were released on the same day, June 14, 2001. She remarked, "If things had gone differently, I would have been in both films. " She noted that during that period, she was the top choice for many filmmakers who were eager to cast her in their projects.

Ameesha concluded by reflecting on how her distinct personality shaped her early career, leading to both a missed opportunity in one iconic film and a career-defining role in another legendary blockbuster that released on the very same day.