It has been precisely thirty years since two iconic stars first shared the screen in a major film. We refer to "Karan Arjun," the blockbuster featuring Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan in the lead roles. Directed by Rakesh Roshan, this film has reached its 30th anniversary, and its recent re-release has evoked cherished memories for numerous fans. The 1990s marked a high point in Bollywood, characterized by themes of reincarnation, vibrant musical numbers, and tales of vengeance, all of which "Karan Arjun" exemplified, solidifying its status as a must-see blockbuster. The film enjoyed a remarkable box office performance until October 1995, when Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol reunited on screen to present an unforgettable love story in "Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge."

Plot and cast of Karan Arjun

Rakesh Roshan's 1995 fantasy action thriller also starred Raakhee Gulzar, Mamta Kulkarni, and Kajol in the lead parts. Amrish Puri portrays the main antagonist, while Johnny Lever, Arjun, Jack Gaud, Ranjeet, and Aasif Sheikh provide supporting roles.

The narrative centres around two brothers, portrayed by Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan, who are the central figures of the film. They seek vengeance against their greedy uncle, who is responsible for their father's murder. However, the uncle kills them as well, leading to their reincarnation to fulfill their quest for revenge.

The tragic slaying of Durga's husband, played by Rakhee, occurs after he bravely opposes his brother Durjan Singh, portrayed by Amrish Puri, and his tyrannical rule. This act leaves Durga and her two sons, Karan (Salman Khan) and Arjun (Shah Rukh Khan), destitute. The situation worsens when their malevolent uncle murders both sons, shattering Durga's life. Overcome with grief and despair, she loses her sanity and implores the divine to restore her sons so they can avenge her humiliation and their father's death. Two decades later, her prayers are answered as her sons return as Ajay (Salman) and Vijay (SRK), ready to take revenge on Durjan Singh and his nefarious family.

Karan Arjun's box office success

On January 13, 1995, Karan Arjun premiered in theatres across India. The film garnered ₹450 million in revenue and received positive critiques from critics, establishing it as an "all-time blockbuster" and ranking as the second-highest-grossing Bollywood film of 1995, following Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. Throughout the decade, it stood as the sixth highest-grossing film. Additionally, the movie was re-released globally on November 22, 2024.

Casting challenges and final choices

Rakesh Roshan originally envisioned Shah Rukh Khan and Ajay Devgn in the lead roles of the film. However, both actors expressed a preference for different characters; Ajay Devgn wished to portray Arjun, while Shah Rukh Khan aimed to take on the role of Karan. Roshan did not agree to these changes, leading to their withdrawal from the project.

Subsequently, Rakesh Roshan considered Salman Khan and Aamir Khan as his next choices for the leading roles. Although Salman agreed to participate, Aamir was unable to commit to the film. Following this, Shah Rukh Khan approached Roshan with a desire to rejoin the project. This decision ultimately resulted in the collaboration of Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan, marking their first appearance together on screen.

Hrithik Roshan, having previously collaborated with his father on other films, also contributed to this project.

Insights from Rakesh Roshan on Karan Arjun

Previously, during the re-release, Rakesh Roshan, who cast Shah Rukh Khan in Karan Arjun, informed Hindustan Times that his experience working with the superstar on King Uncle (1993) had made him aware of Khan's dedication and hard work as an actor. The director specifically envisioned Shah Rukh for the role of Arjun. Conversely, Rakesh conveyed his appreciation for Salman Khan's expressive and profoundly deep eyes, noting that such a quality was essential for the character of Karan, given his reserved nature.

The filmmaker emphasized that he meticulously balanced each character, ensuring that their songs and action sequences were well-integrated. To prevent any objections from his actors, he crafted the script from their perspectives.

Rakesh reminisces about the immense excitement shared by the crew during the filming of the "Bhaag Arjun Bhaag" sequence, which was shot in a single take and was deeply emotional. In another poignant moment, Rakhee delivers the line, "Mere Karan Arjun Aayenge," which left everyone in awe due to the profound emotion she brought to the scene; it was truly a remarkable piece of cinema.

Karan Arjun is available for streaming on ZEE5 (OTTplay Premium).

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