Rakesh Roshan reveals Ameesha Patel was cast just 3 days before Kaho Naa… shoot

Filmmaker Rakesh Roshan is elated as his iconic film Kaho Naa…Pyaar Hai completed 25 years on January 10. Other than the film’s soul-stirring songs and plotline, what captured the attention of the fans were the two leads, Hrithik Roshan and Ameesha Patel who made their debut in the industry with the 2000 film.

In an exclusive interview with India Today Digital, Rakesh spoke about the challenges involved in casting newcomers and how he was as well aware of his son’s caliber. However, what was interesting to note was that Ameesha was cast just three days before the shooting.

While talking about the same, the director said, “I was not nervous, actually. After reading the story, I realised it required fresh faces—both the leads had to be newcomers. Hrithik and I had already collaborated on a few projects, and he had helped me with the script. This gave me a better understanding that he can pull off this role well. We worked closely together, and since I knew his potential and he understood my expectations, it wasn’t difficult to bring it all together.”

Adding, “As for Ameesha Patel, we cast her just three days before shooting began. She was a complete outsider to the film industry but delivered an impressive performance. It never felt like Hrithik and Ameesha were debutants—they performed with confidence and looked more like veterans.”

Having said that, when asked if the actor-director would ever think of making a sequel of the popular film for the Gen Z audience, Roshan discussed how he always likes to challenge himself with different genres.

“I started with Khoon Bhari Maang, a heroine-centric film featuring Rekha, but instead of following that success with a similar theme, I chose a completely different path. Next, I made the double-role film Kishan Kanhaiya, followed by King Uncle with Jackie Shroff and a young girl in the lead. I’ve always challenged myself with diverse subjects. After that came Karan Arjun and Koyla. It was then that I realized I had never directed a romantic film, despite exploring various genres. That’s when the idea of Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai was born.”

“Following its success, many expected me to make Hrithik a dancing star in another film. Instead, I challenged myself—and him—by casting him as a handicapped boy in Koi Mil Gaya. I knew his strengths as an actor and his ability to deliver deeply emotional performances,” the 73-year-old director concluded.

Directed by Rakesh Roshan, the film also marked the debut of Ameesha Patel alongside Hrithik.

The film’s re-release is special for fans as it is Hrithik Roshan’s 51st birthday as well. KNPH is available for screening at PVR INOX starting January 10.