Khushbu Sundar reveals Raj Kapoor had selected her for Ram Teri Ganga Maili before Mandakini, says, "we did a photoshoot but..."

Khushbu

Khushbu Sundar, a prominent actress and politician, recently shared a fascinating revelation about her early career. She disclosed that she was initially Raj Kapoor’s first choice for the iconic film Ram Teri Ganga Maili. In an interview, Khushbu explained how she was selected for the role but ultimately couldn’t continue due to her age.

Khushbu said, “Raj Kapoor wanted to launch me in Ram Teri Ganga Maili. We also did a photoshoot for the same.” She recalled how Raj Kapoor, known for his meticulous approach to filmmaking, was impressed with her and declared, “She is my Ganga.” However, the iconic director soon realized that casting her would pose challenges. The character of Ganga required a significant maturity, especially as the story depicted her as a mother to a newborn. Khushbu, at just 14 years old, appeared too young for the role. “Raj ji said, ‘She is herself a kid, and a baby in her hand won’t look good,’” she shared.

The decision to not move forward with Khushbu was pragmatic, considering the narrative needs of the film. The storyline required the actress to portray an emotional depth and resilience that comes with life experiences, which would have been difficult for a teenager. Raj Kapoor decided not to delay the production and had to let her go, leading him to cast Mandakini, whose performance in the film became legendary.

Khushbu further explained how the initial plan to shoot the film in Gangotri had to be postponed due to weather conditions. The crew decided to start shooting in Kolkata instead, with scenes involving the brothel sequence. It was during this phase that Raj Kapoor decided to re-evaluate the casting for Ganga, as the character’s maternal role became more central.

Also Read: Actress Divya Unni returns to the US amid Police investigation notice in Uma Thomas accident case

Despite missing out on the project, Khushbu looks back on the experience without regrets. The film, released in 1985, marked Raj Kapoor’s final directorial venture and became a massive hit, remembered for its bold storytelling and melodious music. Mandakini’s portrayal of Ganga left an indelible mark on Indian cinema, but Khushbu’s brief association with the film remains an interesting “what if” moment.

In the same conversation, Khushbu spoke fondly of Rajiv Kapoor, who played the male lead in the film. She opened up about their camaraderie and also expressed sadness over his untimely demise. “He (Rajiv) did have a heart issue, but because of his addiction to alcohol, we knew that it could create a huge problem,” she revealed. Reflecting on his health struggles, she added, “We were aware that Chimpu was unwell. It came as a rude shock when Boney Kapoor informed me about his passing.”

Khushbu also shared her lingering regrets about losing touch with Rajiv Kapoor’s family over the years. “I still have Rajiv Kapoor’s number,” she said, highlighting her personal connection to the Kapoor family despite the twists of fate that shaped her early career.

This anecdote sheds light on how the Indian film industry, while rooted in creativity, often demands practical decisions. Khushbu’s story adds another layer to the legacy of Ram Teri Ganga Maili, showing how opportunities, timing, and fate intertwine in the world of cinema.