Ameesha Patel revealed how she landed Mangal Pandey: The Rising, crediting her rapport with Aamir Khan and an unexpected turn during Lagaan.
She shared that Aamir first noticed her during a BBC interview, where he was impressed by her articulation and intellect, which eventually led to the opportunity.
Ameesha Patel shared that Aamir Khan first noticed her in a BBC interview and they later bonded in Delhi, forming a natural rapport. She also revealed she had earlier auditioned and was almost finalised for Lagaan before being dropped.
Ameesha Patel recalled that she had screen-tested and was almost finalised for Lagaan, even allocating dates, before being dropped while she was shooting for Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai. Director Ashutosh Gowariker felt her personality didn’t suit a village girl, noting her ‘educated’ look and fair complexion. Interestingly, those same qualities later worked in her favour, helping her bag Gadar: Ek Prem Katha, where she played a refined and politically aware character. Looking back, she reflected on how she nearly featured in both Lagaan and Gadar, which released on the same day.
Why did Aishwarya Rai exit Mangal Pandey?
Before Ameesha Patel joined Mangal Pandey: The Rising, the role of Jwala was offered to Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, whose exit sparked speculation. She later cited a disagreement with the producer, while producer Bobby Bedi attributed it to a fee renegotiation issue.
After Aishwarya Rai Bachchan exited Mangal Pandey: The Rising, Ameesha Patel stepped in as Jwala opposite Aamir Khan. She reflects that the role came through a mix of timing, past association and unexpected turns in her career.