Director Reveals Randeep Hooda Was Initial Choice for Dabangg Lead

In a recent interview, director Abhinav Kashyap disclosed that Randeep Hooda was the original choice for the lead role of Chulbul Panday in the blockbuster film Dabangg. Contrary to popular belief, this revelation sheds light on the behind-the-scenes decision-making that ultimately led to the casting of Salman Khan in the iconic role.

Kashyap, who is also the brother of filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, shared that he initially pitched the film to Arbaaz Khan, who expressed interest in portraying the lead himself. However, Arbaaz later opted to take on the role of producer. He suggested that Kashyap present the script to his brother, Sohail Khan. Upon reading the script, Sohail inquired about the casting choices, leading to a pivotal moment in the film’s development.

When Kashyap mentioned his preference for Hooda, citing his rugged appearance as a fitting choice for a cop, Sohail responded with skepticism. He questioned Hooda’s marketability, stating, “No, yaar, Randeep Hooda ka kya market hai, kaun paise lagayega, koi bada hero soch” (He doesn’t have a big enough reach, who would invest in him, think of a big hero). This conversation prompted Kashyap to suggest other actors like Sanjay Dutt and Sunny Deol before finally proposing Salman Khan.

Strong interest followed from both Sohail and Arbaaz when Salman’s name came up. They agreed to produce Dabangg only if Salman expressed enthusiasm for the project. Kashyap also revealed that Salman’s involvement came at a crucial time for the actor, who was looking to shift his public image. He noted that by 2008, Salman had developed a reputation for playing characters with a “chhichhora” or rowdy image, particularly from films like Tere Naam.

Kashyap remarked on the timing of his initial discussions with Salman, highlighting that the actor had gained notoriety for roles perceived as obsessive or overly romantic. “Salman’s image at the time was that of a chhichhora, someone who would harass women on the streets,” he explained. This context underscores how the role of Chulbul Panday served as a pivotal point in Salman’s career, helping to redefine his public persona.

As the production of Dabangg moved forward, the film became a significant success, contributing to Salman Khan’s resurgence as a leading figure in Bollywood. It generated substantial box office revenue, solidifying his status as a major star in Indian cinema.

This insight into the casting process not only highlights the complexities of film production but also reflects the broader dynamics of celebrity and marketability in the Bollywood industry. As Kashyap’s revelations continue to circulate, they offer fans a deeper understanding of the decisions that shape the films they love.