Raveena Tandon revealed why she rejected Karan Johar’s debut film Kuch Kuch Hota Hai despite their friendship, explaining her career strategy and choice to return as a solo heroine after Mohra.
Rani Mukerji’s portrayal of Tina in Karan Johar’s debut rom-com Kuch Kuch Hota Hai has achieved cult status over the years. But did you know she was not the first choice for the role? Yes, you heard that right. Karan Johar had initially offered the part to Raveena Tandon!
In a recent candid interaction with Zoom, the Dulhe Raja actress opened up on turning down Karan Johar’s debut film. She explained why despite being close friends with the filmmaker, she chose not to take on the role that eventually went to Rani Mukerji.
Reflecting on her career trajectory, Raveena shared that the decision was not about friendship but about positioning herself in the industry at that time. She recalled how, after the success of Mohra, she couldn’t afford to restart her career by playing a second lead.
She was quoted as saying, “It was very necessary for me to restart even if I had five scenes and five songs, but as a solo heroine. I had to restart my career like that, which was very difficult, but I was like you have to do this.”
The actress admitted that for her, the choice was about reclaiming her space as a lead actress rather than stepping into a supporting role.
According to Raveena, the decision worked differently for Rani Mukerji, who was a fresh face then.
“It worked for Rani because she was young and new, but for me, it wasn’t about starting off from where I left- it was a really difficult decision,” she admitted.
Starring Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol and Rani Mukerji, Karan Johar’s Kuch Kuch Hota Hai revolves around the theme of friendship, love, and second chances.
