When Salman Khan opened up that Anushka Sharma was not the first choice for ‘Sultan’

Bollywood’s extensively celebrated actor, producer, singer, and television host, Salman Khan, has ruled the Indian film industry for over three decades. His immense popularity is not only attributed to his remarkable acting but also to his philanthropy, making him a beloved figure among fans.

Salman Khan’s generosity and lavish gifts to his co-actors and friends further enhance his reputation as one of Bollywood’s most influential personalities.

When Salman Khan opened up that Anushka Sharma was not the first choice for 'Sultan'

The “Dabangg” star is known for mentoring many newcomers and is widely respected for his charity work through his NGO, “Being Human.” Often referred to as the ‘Bhai’ of Bollywood, Salman never hesitates to express his love and gratitude toward his colleagues.

The Actress Who Was Initially Considered for Sultan

Recently, Salman Khan made headlines after revealing the name of the actress who was initially considered for the role of Aarfa in Sultan. The 2016 sports drama, directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, tells the story of Sultan Ali Khan, a once-successful wrestler who faces personal and professional challenges before making a triumphant comeback. Anushka Sharma played Aarfa, Sultan’s wife and a wrestler who plays a crucial role in his journey.

However, Salman disclosed that Mrunal Thakur was the first choice for the role. She even had a meeting with the director at Salman’s Panvel farmhouse. Despite her acting talent, she was ultimately not cast due to her physical appearance at the time.

The filmmakers felt she didn’t quite fit the part of a wrestler, especially because she had lost a significant amount of weight. They required someone who could convincingly portray a strong and athletic character, which led them to finalize Anushka Sharma for the role. Her physical suitability and chemistry with Salman made her the ideal choice.