Salman Khan’s film career is filled with milestones that have defined their respective eras. From Maine Pyaar Kiya to the cult classic Hum Saath Saath Hai, his movies have become landmarks in Hindi cinema. However, in 2003, Salman decided to reinvent himself, delivering a performance so distinct from his previous roles that audiences were introduced to a whole new side of the actor. This transformation came with Tere Naam, co-starring Bhumika Chawla in her Bollywood debut. Directed by Satish Kaushik, the movie is widely regarded as one of Salman’s finest performances. However, did you know Salman wasn’t the first choice for the role?

Salman Khan Wasn’t the First Choice for Tere Naam

Tere Naam was inspired by a real-life incident involving writer Bala’s friend. The film was a remake of the 1999 Tamil film Sethu, which was also remade in Kannada (Huchcha) and Telugu (Seshu). Each version was well-received by audiences. When the Hindi adaptation was being planned, Salman wasn’t the initial choice for the role of Radhe. In fact, the part was first offered to Ajay Devgn and even earlier, to another actor.

Yes, you read that right—Ajay Devgn was initially approached for the role of Radhe in Tere Naam. Before Ajay, the makers had considered Sanjay Kapoor for the lead, but he turned it down. After both actors declined the project, the role eventually landed with Salman Khan, who seized the opportunity and gave a career-defining performance. The rest, as they say, is history.

About Tere Naam

Tere Naam tells the story of Radhe, an obsessive lover and rogue college dropout who loiters around the college campus. He becomes infatuated with a girl, played by Bhumika Chawla, and cannot get her out of his mind. The film explores heartbreak and darkness, culminating in a tragic ending.

In 2020, the late Satish Kaushik discussed the parallels between Tere Naam and Kabir Singh (starring Shahid Kapoor and Kiara Advani) during an interview with Bollywood Life. He said:
"There are quite a few similarities between Tere Naam and Kabir Singh, especially in how the hero pursues the girl and other aspects. You wouldn’t believe that while shooting the movie, Salman had told me it would resonate with audiences, but we were sending the wrong message to the youth. This isn’t the kind of character we should portray for young people as they could be negatively influenced. Salman has always been very conscious about the messages he conveys to his fans on screen."

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