Ameesha Patel clarifies she never rejected Chalte Chalte with Shah Rukh Khan, says "My secretary never told me..."

Ameesha Patel clarifies never rejecting Chalte Chalte

Ameesha Patel recently spoke about missing out on Chalte Chalte in 2003, which starred Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukerji. Ina recent interview, the actress clarified that she didn’t actually turn down the film, but rather, she was never informed about the offer in the first place.

She explained that it wasn’t a matter of rejecting the project but more about a lack of communication, and expressed her surprise upon learning that the role had gone to someone else. Ameesha also shared her thoughts on how the film’s success impacted her career and discussed how she had to focus on other opportunities after that.

While talking to Bollywood Bubble, Ameesha recalled an unexpected conversation with Shah Rukh Khan at a dubbing studio, where both were working on their respective films.

During a casual encounter, Shah Rukh reportedly told her, “Let me show you the film you rejected.” Surprised by the revelation, Ameesha responded that she had no idea she was ever considered for the role.

Ameesha later discovered from director Aziz Mirza that both he and producer Juhi Chawla were eager to cast her, but her secretary had declined the offer due to supposed scheduling conflicts, without consulting her first. Patel admitted she was shocked by this revelation and expressed regret over missing the chance to work alongside Shah Rukh Khan.

"I would have probably created a clone to do that film," she said, emphasising how much she wanted to collaborate with the superstar.

After this incident, Ameesha took steps to overhaul her professional team, ensuring that she would have complete control over her career decisions going forward. She also hinted at other similar missed opportunities in the past, which she only learned about much later.

Chalte Chalte, which ultimately featured Rani Mukerji alongside Shah Rukh Khan, became a commercial success. Although Ameesha missed out on the film, she continues to be best known for her iconic roles in Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai, Gadar: Ek Prem Katha, and several other successful projects.