Did you know? Not Priyanka Chopra but this actress was first choice for Abhishek Bachchan and John Abraham starrer Dostana | Hindi Movie News – Times of India

‘Dostana’, directed by Karan Johar in 2008, is regarded as one of the most loved Bollywood films. The powerful performances of John Abraham, Abhishek Bachchan, and Priyanka Chopra made it a box office hit. Priyanka’s incredible performance in the film won her the title of Desi Girl.
However, Priyanka Chopra was not the first choice for the film. What if we asked you to see a different actress playing the glamorous Neha in Dostana instead of Priyanka Chopra? It’s interesting to note that Aishwarya Rai Bachchan was initially slated to star in Karan Johar’s romantic comedy flick rather than Priyanka Chopra.
This surprising disclosure was made by Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in an old interview with DNA. She shared, “Through the years, Karan and I thought we would work on Dostana together. Then I got married. Saif was there in the film initially, but after our marriage, he was like, Abhishek and Aishwarya will be together in the film. So it won’t look right. Then, it was John and Abhishek with PeeCee who eventually did the film. Saif himself opted out. Somewhere, things did not fall in place for both me and Karan.”
In addition, Abhishek Bachchan also disclosed during a guest appearance on the famous chat show ‘Koffee With Karan’ that Saif Ali Khan was originally considered for the role, but he ultimately declined, and John Abraham took his place.
Saif Ali Khan discussed the same casting incident in an old interview with India Today. He said, “No, I didn’t really chicken out. I mean I just thought, I think there was Abhishek and Aishwarya in the movie at the time I was being offered it and I was just wondering if I would fit in really and I told Karan that.”
Tarun Mansukhani’s 2008 film Dostana wowed viewers with its unique fusion of romance, humour, and drama. The story of two straight men who pose as gay in order to get an apartment captured the attention of audiences with the energetic performances of Priyanka Chopra, John Abraham, and Abhishek Bachchan. Bobby Deol and Kirron Kher have important supporting parts in the film as well.
Despite facing some controversy, Dostana became a box office success, grossing over ₹871 million worldwide. Even today, the film remains a favourite for its catchy music, stylish costumes, and heartwarming exploration of friendship and acceptance. Critics praised the film’s original plot, and Priyanka’s performance in the song Desi Girl and her dance moves became popular in households. Even now, when we say “Desi Girl,” Priyanka and the song come to mind.
‘Dostana’, which made over ₹871 million at the box office worldwide, was a box office success despite some criticism. The film is still a favourite today because of its upbeat soundtrack, chic outfits, and touching exploration of acceptance and friendship. Critics praised the film’s original plot, and Priyanka’s dance movements and performance in the song Desi Girl gained widespread popularity. Even now, when we say ‘Desi Girl’, Priyanka and the song come to mind.