Mela, the Bollywood film starring Aamir Khan, has completed 25 years since its release, and this milestone has brought back memories of the film’s production and casting process. One interesting fact that has resurfaced is that Aishwarya Rai was the first choice for the female lead in the movie. However, she turned down the role, and the reasons behind her decision are quite surprising.

Aishwarya Rai, who was already an established actress at that time, was reportedly offered the role of Roopa, the female lead in Mela. The film, directed by Dharmesh Darshan, was a romantic drama with a strong storyline and an ensemble cast, including Aamir Khan, Twinkle Khanna, and Faisal Khan. Despite the film’s potential, Aishwarya decided not to take up the role, citing reasons that have left many in the film industry wondering what could have been.

According to sources, Aishwarya Rai turned down the role in Mela because she was not comfortable with the film’s script and her character’s portrayal. The actress, known for her strong persona and dedication to her craft, felt that the role did not align with her vision and goals as an actress. This decision, although surprising, showcases Aishwarya’s commitment to her art and her willingness to take risks and make tough choices.

The role of Roopa eventually went to Twinkle Khanna, who delivered a commendable performance in the film. Although Mela did not receive overwhelming critical acclaim, it still managed to perform decently at the box office and has since become a nostalgic favorite among many Bollywood fans. The film’s music, composed by Lesle Lewis, Anu Malik, and Raju Singh, also received praise and contributed to the film’s success.

In retrospect, it is interesting to imagine how Mela would have turned out if Aishwarya Rai had accepted the role. The film’s dynamics and overall impact might have been different with her involvement. Nevertheless, Aishwarya’s decision to turn down the role in Mela did not affect her career, as she went on to deliver impeccable performances in films like Devdas, Jodhaa Akbar, and Enthiran, cementing her position as one of Bollywood’s most talented and versatile actresses.

As Mela completes 25 years, the revelation about Aishwarya Rai being the first choice for the film serves as a reminder of the unpredictability and excitement that comes with the Bollywood film industry. The what-ifs and maybes are an inherent part of the industry, and this story is just one of the many fascinating anecdotes that make Bollywood so captivating and intriguing.