Vivah is definitely one of the standout roles in Shahid Kapoor's career, turning him into an instant star. Directed by Sooraj Barjatya, this 2006 film featured Amrita Rao alongside him. But what made Sooraj pick Shahid for the role instead of Salman Khan, who he had worked with on several successful films? In a chat with Digital Commentary, Sooraj shared his reasons. 

Sooraj's words

Sooraj shared his thoughts during the chat about why he chose Shahid for Vivah instead of Salman. He mentioned, "If I think about it, I’m pretty selfish when it comes to my work because nothing matters more to me than being a writer and director. Whether it’s Maine Pyaar Kiya or Hum Aapke Hain Koun, it’s always the story that draws me in. Otherwise, why would I spend five years on a project? The subject itself guides me on what I need to create."

Salman bhai won't be in shape

He mentioned, “There was this story my dad shared with me from a newspaper clipping. It was about a tailor in Meerut who married a girl who had been burned in a fire. We thought it would be great to create a love story inspired by that act of humanity. When the calls kept coming in, I felt Salman bhai wouldn’t be the right choice for this role. The story needed someone who felt fresh and innocent, and age doesn’t wait for anyone. That’s why we went with Shahid and Amrita for the casting.”

Sooraj Barjatya's most recent film was Uunchai (2022), which tells the tale of three elderly men on a journey to climb Mount Everest. He received the National Award for Best Director for that film.

On another note, Shahid is set to appear in Deva next, while Salman's upcoming film Sikander is scheduled for release on Eid.

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