When Hrithik Roshan burst onto the Bollywood scene with Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai in 2000, it was clear he had the looks, the talent, and the charm to become one of India’s biggest superstars. Over the past two decades, he’s built a career with careful choices, often going for roles that suit his style and persona. But even someone as selective as Hrithik has had his fair share of “what if” moments.
Here’s a look at five iconic movies Hrithik Roshan famously turned down, and whether skipping them changed the course of his career.
1. 2 Fast 2 Furious (2003)
Hollywood had its eye on Hrithik after his early success, and the Fast and Furious franchise was just starting to gain serious momentum. Hrithik was offered a role in the second installment — a move that could have catapulted him into the international action scene. However, Hrithik decided to focus on his Bollywood career at the time.
Given that 2 Fast 2 Furious wasn’t as well-received as its predecessors and sequels, it’s hard to say this was a huge missed opportunity. Hrithik went on to establish himself as one of the most bankable action heroes in India with hits like Dhoom 2 and War, carving his lane without a Hollywood detour.
2. The Pink Panther 2 (2009)
Hrithik was also approached for a small role alongside Steve Martin in The Pink Panther 2. Though this comedy franchise had its share of fans, it never achieved standout critical or commercial success. Hrithik opting out was hardly a career setback — sticking to meatier, more substantial roles at home arguably helped him maintain his credibility as an actor. Given the film’s lukewarm reception worldwide, this is one rejection that probably spared him some awkward comedy.
3. Swades (2004)
Ashutosh Gowariker originally had Hrithik in mind for Swades, the heartfelt story of an NRI who returns to his roots. Hrithik declined the part, feeling it wasn’t quite right for him at the time. Shah Rukh Khan stepped in and delivered one of his most nuanced performances. Missing Swades is one choice that still sparks discussion. The film wasn’t a box-office hit initially, but it went on to become a cult favorite that’s appreciated for its depth and honesty. Hrithik could have proved his range with this character-driven role, and some argue that Swades might have earned him a different kind of recognition.
4. Lagaan (2001)
Aamir Khan’s Lagaan was a once-in-a-generation film that captivated both Indian and international audiences. Hrithik was approached for Bhuvan’s role before Aamir decided to produce it himself. The role would have been physically demanding and required a certain rustic charm, a world away from Hrithik’s polished image at the time. Given the film’s Oscar nomination and enduring impact, missing Lagaan is often considered one of Hrithik’s most significant what-ifs. But then again, the role seemed tailor-made for Aamir — it’s hard to imagine anyone else bringing Bhuvan’s quiet strength to life the way he did.
5. Baahubali 2 (2017)
Hrithik was also rumored to have been considered for a prominent role in S.S. Rajamouli’s Baahubali 2, the epic fantasy that became a global phenomenon. Turning it down meant missing out on a record-breaking film that transcended language and region. Yet, Hrithik’s career didn’t exactly stall the very next year; he was back with Super 30, a film that earned him praise for his grounded, transformative performance. Even without Baahubali, Hrithik continues to draw audiences with his distinctive style of storytelling.
Also Read…
Ed Sheeran Confirms His Bollywood Singing Debut; A Collaboration with Shah Rukh Khan?
A Matter of Fit
When you look at these choices, one thing becomes clear: Hrithik Roshan is someone who has always followed his instincts. Every role he let go of was taken up by someone who left their unique stamp on it. Sure, it’s fun to imagine what might have happened if he had taken a different path. But Hrithik has built a career that feels true to him, balancing action, romance, and character-driven pieces in a way that few actors manage.
In the end, turning down a few big movies hasn’t kept Hrithik Roshan from becoming a powerhouse of Hindi cinema. If anything, it shows that sometimes knowing what not to do can shape your story just as much as knowing what to say yes to.
Writer — Subham Choudhary