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6h ago

Chetan Bhagat Says SRK, Priyanka Were Early ‘2 States’ Options Before Arjun–Alia Leads

In a new interview, the author recounts a development process that moved from marquee names to a younger cast he now credits with making the film feel fresh.

In a recent interview, Chetan Bhagat spoke about how his book 2 States turned into a film.
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Overview

  • Speaking to Pinkvilla, Bhagat says filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj was at one point set to adapt 2 States while top stars like Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra were being discussed.
  • The film ultimately released in 2014 under first-time director Abhishek Varman with Arjun Kapoor and Alia Bhatt in the lead roles.
  • Bhagat recalls initial doubts about casting the then newcomers, later concluding their age brought a freshness that benefited the movie.
  • He compares the journey to Kai Po Che!, noting many established actors declined before Sushant Singh Rajput, Rajkummar Rao and Amit Sadh starred in what he calls his best adaptation.
  • The author also shares anecdotes about Shah Rukh Khan’s humility, including gestures on the Om Shanti Om set and during a visit to the actor’s home.