Birthday Special: When 'PK' director Rajkumar Hirani rejected Anushka Sharma

Anushka Sharma, one of Bollywood's most celebrated actresses, has delivered numerous incredible performances over the years. One of those notable films is Rajkumar Hirani's PK, where she starred alongside Aamir Khan and the late Sushant Singh Rajput. While this film marks the only collaboration between Anushka and Hirani, the two could have worked together much earlier.

Years ago, had Rajkumar Hirani accepted Anushka Sharma's audition, she might have been a part of his highly acclaimed film 3 Idiots instead of Kareena Kapoor. Yes, you read that right. In fact, Anushka auditioned for the role in 3 Idiots back in 2007, but Hirani rejected her. Anushka herself revealed this during the making of PK.

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During the audition, Anushka performed a dialogue from the film Munna Bhai MBBS. She gave a brilliant performance, but despite her talent, she was not chosen for the role.

Years later, Anushka showed her audition to both Rajkumar Hirani and Aamir Khan, and they were surprised to learn about the rejection. They had no idea about it! Despite the setback, 7 years later, Hirani picked Anushka for PK, proving that everything happens for a reason.

Interestingly, this audition happened even before Anushka's debut film Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi (2008), where she starred alongside Shah Rukh Khan. Had Rajkumar Hirani accepted her audition, Anushka's debut film would have been with Mr. Perfectionist (Aamir Khan), instead of King Khan!

Anushka Sharma's Films

Anushka Sharma has since gone on to establish herself as one of Bollywood’s leading actresses, with a string of successful films like Band Baaja Baaraat, Ladies vs Ricky Bahl, Badmaash Company, Patiala House, Jab Tak Hai Jaan, NH10, Dil Dhadakne Do, Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, Sultan, PK, Sanju, Jab Harry Met Sejal, Bombay Velvet, Matrubhoomi Ka Mandola, and more.

Anushka Sharma's Current Work

As for Anushka Sharma's recent work, her last acting project was Zero in December 2018, in which she starred alongside Shah Rukh Khan and Katrina Kaif. Since then, she has not acted in any new films. However, she has ventured into production, launching several successful projects under her production house, including NH10, Bulbbul, Phillauri, Pari, and the web series Paatal Lok. These projects were well-received by audiences and critics alike.

Currently, Anushka Sharma is living in London with her husband, cricketer Virat Kohli, and their two children.