Hum Tum Director Reveals Aamir Khan Didn’t Even Listen to the Script; Hrithik Roshan Also Said No for This Reason
The 2004 romantic comedy Hum Tum, starring Saif Ali Khan and Rani Mukerji, is a fan favorite even today. The film was re-released in cinemas on May 16, 2025, to celebrate its 21st anniversary. But did you know that Saif wasn’t the first choice for the lead role?
In a recent interview with Radio Nasha, director Kunal Kohli shared that before Saif Ali Khan came on board, he had offered the film to Hrithik Roshan, Aamir Khan, and Vivek Oberoi.
Kunal said that Hrithik Roshan really liked the script and called it “beautiful,” but turned it down because he didn’t feel ready for the role at that time. Hrithik told him, “Let a few of my films release first. I think some of them might flop. I’m just going through a rough phase right now.” According to Kunal, Hrithik wasn’t making excuses—he just wanted to be in a better place in his career before doing a film like Hum Tum.
Aamir Khan, on the other hand, didn’t even listen to the script. Kunal explained that Aamir was dealing with personal issues at the time, as his marriage with his first wife Reena Dutta was ending. Because of that, Aamir wasn’t in the right mindset to consider new projects.
Vivek Oberoi actually agreed to do the film and even gave dates. However, he later asked for changes in the script. The team couldn’t agree on those changes, so they decided to part ways.
That’s when Aditya Chopra, who was closely involved in the film, suggested Saif Ali Khan for the lead role. Kunal agreed, and that’s how Saif came on board.
Hum Tum released on May 28, 2004, and became a huge hit. Saif’s role as Karan Kapoor was loved by the youth, and his on-screen chemistry with Rani Mukerji won millions of hearts. Even 21 years later, the film remains a timeless romantic favorite.
Also Read: Naseeruddin Shah’s Powerful Realization: When Work Became a Torture
