Who wouldn’t want to share screen space with Amitabh Bachchan? The legendary actor has been an icon in the Indian film industry for over five decades, making any role alongside him a golden opportunity. However, one acclaimed actress, known for her impeccable performances in character-driven roles, surprisingly turned down the chance to play Big B’s wife in Baghban (2003). That actress was none other than Tabu.
Tabu Was the First Choice for Baghban
Before Hema Malini was cast as Pooja Malhotra in Baghban, the role was initially offered to Tabu. Ravi Chopra’s wife, Renu Chopra, recently revealed in an interview with Pinkvilla that Tabu was their first choice. She recalled, “We thought of casting Tabu, and she insisted on listening to the film’s script. She cried and all that. She loved the script. I thought she was definitely going to say yes to the film.” However, despite her emotional response to the story, Tabu ultimately rejected the role.
Why Did Tabu Say No?
Despite loving the script, Tabu had one major concern—playing the mother of four children. As Renu Chopra further shared, “I asked Tabu, ‘You won’t do the film?’ She said she loved the story but doesn’t want to portray a mother of four children. She said, ‘My whole career is ahead of me, so Ravi ji, mujh maaf kardo (Ravi ji, please forgive me).’”
Tabu and Big B’s Later Collaboration
Though Baghban didn’t happen for Tabu, she eventually shared screen space with Amitabh Bachchan in Cheeni Kum (2007). Directed by R. Balki, the film presented an unconventional love story between a much older man and a younger woman, a stark contrast to Baghban’s family drama. The film was well-received, proving that their on-screen chemistry was worth the wait.
While Baghban became a beloved classic with Hema Malini in the role, Tabu’s decision reflected her long-term career vision, and she went on to carve a niche with diverse and powerful performances in Indian cinema.
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