Overview
- Bhagat recalls that Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra and Saif Ali Khan were among names discussed for the adaptation, with Vishal Bhardwaj at one stage expected to direct.
- He says he was initially unconvinced when a new director and early‑career leads Alia Bhatt and Arjun Kapoor were chosen for the film.
- He now credits the youthful casting with giving the movie a fresh energy that helped it resonate with audiences.
- He points to Kai Po Che! as a similar case in which established stars passed and newcomers Sushant Singh Rajput, Rajkummar Rao and Amit Sadh became standouts.
- The accounts and anecdotes, including praise for Shah Rukh Khan’s courtesy, are Bhagat’s recollections shared in the Pinkvilla interview and reported by Indian Express and Times Now.