11 Years of Dedh Ishqiya: Did You Know Kangana Ranaut Was Nearly Cast Alongside Naseeruddin Shah and Madhuri Dixit?
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Bollywood has not extensively delved into the realm of black comedy. Nevertheless, when this genre is addressed, many films emerge as both entertaining and engaging. The release of Dedh Ishqiya in 2014, a sequel to Ishqiya (2010), significantly boosted its allure. Naseeruddin Shah and Arshad Warsi reprised their memorable roles, joined by Madhuri Dixit-Nene and Huma Qureshi. On this date, eleven years ago, Vishal Bhardwaj co-produced Abhishek Chaubey's Dedh Ishqiya, bringing it to the cinematic audience.
Plot of Dedh Ishqiya
Naseeruddin Shah portrays the role of poacher Khalujaan, while Arshad Warsi takes on the character of his nephew Babban. "Dedh Ishqiya" presents a dramatic and visually captivating exploration of their adventures. The duo successfully escapes with a highly coveted royal necklace. However, they find themselves separated during a police chase and reunite several months later at a castle in Lucknow. Here, Khalujaan competes against Urdu poets for the affection of Begum Para, a widowed heiress portrayed by Madhuri Dixit. As Khalujaan grows closer to Begum, Babban finds himself attracted to the bold, mysterious, and sensually charged Muniya (Huma Qureshi), who serves as Begum's confidante. The situation takes a grim turn when Begum Para is kidnapped shortly after announcing her engagement.
The producers of Ishqiya (2010), Vishal Bhardwaj and Shemaroo Entertainment, revealed the sequel during an exclusive gathering in Mumbai. The original cast and crew are set to reprise their roles in the follow-up. However, it was later reported that Vidya Balan, who portrayed the lead character in Ishqiya, would not be returning for the sequel. After her return to India from the United States in November 2011, Madhuri Dixit secured her first role in April 2012, accepting the part of Begum Para, the film's central character, who is depicted as a morally ambiguous woman.
Cast shifts and final line-up
Both male leads from the original film, Naseeruddin Shah and Arshad Warsi, reprised their roles. After Asin Thottumkal declined the supporting role, the opportunity was offered to another actress. In a subsequent interview, she stated that she did not find the role appealing, which led to her decision to decline. Shortly thereafter, Kangana Ranaut was cast in Dedh Ishqiya, announcing that production would commence soon. However, her departure from the project occurred in December 2012, reportedly due to persistent scheduling conflicts. Huma Qureshi then assumed the role. Arshad Warsi revealed that Naseeruddin Shah was paired with Madhuri, while Huma was partnered with him.
Dedh Ishqiya is available to stream on Prime Video, ShemarooMe (OTTplay Premium), and Lionsgate Play (OTTplay Premium).
