Karan Arjun Turns 30: Unknown Interesting Facts about Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan’s Blockbuster!
The iconic film Karan Arjun of Bollywood has successfully completed the momentous 30 years of its release. Under the direction of the fabulous Rakesh Roshan, this movie was a mix of action, drama, and reincarnation, with powerful performances from Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan. From its memorable dialogues like “Mere Karan Arjun Aayenge” to chartbuster tracks like “Bhangra Paale” and “Jai Maa Kaali,” the film remains a favourite among fans. As we celebrate this milestone, here’s a look at some fascinating and lesser-known anecdotes from the making of this evergreen classic.
The Chaos Behind “Bhangra Paale”
One of the most popular songs from the movie, Bhangra Paale, was shot in Sariska, Rajasthan. However, the shoot wasn’t as smooth as the final product suggests. During the filming, Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan left the set and headed to Delhi without any warning, leaving everyone shocked.
Still working as an assistant director on the film, Hrithik Roshan recalls the incident on Instagram, where he said, “I was flabbergasted, jumped on the bonnet of our car, and begged them not to go”.
In return, this couple did leave while creating a ruckus on the sets. That wasn’t enough drama, though, because Mamta Kulkarni, their co-star in the song, scolded them for their poor dance moves. Years later, Shah Rukh remembered the incident, jokingly admitting, “Unko laga humare step bade kharab hain aur humne gaana kharab kar diya” (They felt our dance steps were terrible and that we ruined the song).
The Role That Got Recast
The role that Aasif Shaikh eventually did was initially offered to Gulshan Grover. Gulshan Grover, however, was a villainous performer par excellence, and his schedule was getting him into frequent delays, so he had to leave the project.
Director Rakesh Roshan once told in an interview that Gulshan often came late on the set. He would even arrive at 4 PM, though the call time was at 11 AM. Rakesh says he replaced him because, “He was a fine actor but doing too many films at once. I had to let him go.”
Ajay Devgn Was Almost Karan
Karan, as Salman Khan, can never be forgotten, but many may not know that Ajay Devgn was first cast as Karan, paired with Shah Rukh Khan, by Rakesh Roshan. However, the two stars were not content with their assignments and wanted to switch roles instead.
But Rakesh was unmoved, arguing that the narrative was better served by the initial casting. Consequently, Ajay Devgn quit the film and Salman took Karan’s place.
Behind-the-Scenes Role for Young Hrithik Roshan
Hrithik Roshan had a stint behind the camera with Karan Arjun, before acting in it and impressing everyone in the cinema hall. As an assistant director, he witnessed firsthand how a movie was made with the help of his father, Rakesh Roshan.
Hrithik often speaks about his memories on the sets, even posting some rare, behind-the-scenes photographs on Instagram. It was all just a precursor to his Bollywood stardom.
A Successful Re-Release in 2024
The legacy of Karan Arjun transcends time. In November 2024, the film was re-released in theaters, attracting a new generation of viewers. Surprisingly, the re-release grossed over ₹1 crore, a commendable feat for a three-decade-old movie.
Rakesh Roshan termed the re-release an “experiment,” saying, “I wanted to present my film to a new generation and gauge their reactions. The re-release’s success has reaffirmed the timeless appeal of the story and characters.”
Cultural Impact and Timeless Appeal
Karan Arjun is more than just a film; it’s a cultural phenomenon. The iconic dialogue, “Mere Karan Arjun Aayenge,” became a rallying cry for hope and determination, resonating with audiences across generations. The soundtrack, with songs like “Yeh Bandhan Toh” and “Jai Maa Kaali,” continues to be celebrated at weddings and festive gatherings.
Even after 30 years, the film’s themes of family, revenge, and reincarnation strike a chord with audiences, making it one of Bollywood’s most enduring classics.
As we celebrate three decades of Karan Arjun, it’s clear that the movie’s legacy will live on for years to come. From its iconic performances to behind-the-scenes drama, the film remains a shining example of Bollywood’s golden era.
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