Prem Ratan Dhan Payo, released in 2015, marks the fourth collaboration between Bollywood superstar Salman Khan and director Sooraj Barjatya. Following their previous successes with films like Maine Pyar Kiya, Hum Aapke Hain Koun, and Hum Saath Saath Hain, expectations were high for this romantic drama. However, behind the scenes, Khan had his reservations, particularly concerning the casting of Sonam Kapoor in the lead role.
The Hit Film: A Brief Overview of Prem Ratan Dhan Payo
The film, which also stars Sonam Kapoor, tells the story of a prince who must navigate his royal duties while finding love. Released in November 2015, Prem Ratan Dhan Payo quickly became a commercial success, grossing over ₹200 crores at the box office. However, the journey to casting Sonam was not as straightforward.
Salman Khan’s Concerns About Casting Sonam Kapoor
In a recent interview, Sooraj Barjatya shared insights into the casting process. He revealed that Khan took almost five months to agree to cast Kapoor. “I’ve seen her grow up; how can I romance her?” Salman reportedly expressed during discussions. His long-standing relationship with Kapoor’s family, particularly her father Anil Kapoor, made the prospect of a romantic pairing seem awkward at first.
Sooraj Barjatya’s Vision for a Fresh Pairing
Sooraj Barjatya explained his vision for the film and the character Sonam would portray. He had a clear idea of wanting to present a fresh pairing, which led him to consider Kapoor after watching her performance in Raanjhanaa. “After watching Raanjhana, I felt Sonam was perfect for the role. It hadn’t occurred to me before, but she fit the character—a princess who was independent and living in Delhi while navigating her relationships,” Sooraj stated.
Despite Salman’s initial hesitation, Sooraj was convinced that Sonam embodied the qualities needed for the role. He focused on how the character’s independence and strength complemented the film’s theme of love and family values.
The Successful Outcome: How the Film Became a Box Office Hit
Ultimately, Salman Khan’s concerns were put to rest, as Prem Ratan Dhan Payo was well-received by audiences and critics alike. The film’s blend of romance, comedy, and drama resonated with viewers, contributing to its status as the second highest-grossing film of 2015. The chemistry between Salman and Sonam was praised, proving that their on-screen pairing worked despite the initial doubts.
Legacy of Collaboration: Salman Khan and Sooraj Barjatya
The success of Prem Ratan Dhan Payo further solidified the partnership between Salman Khan and Sooraj Barjatya, showcasing their ability to create commercially successful films that emphasize family values and heartfelt storytelling. This film is yet another testament to their successful collaborations over the years.
As Salman Khan continues to evolve as an actor and producer, his willingness to step outside his comfort zone is commendable. His collaboration with Sonam Kapoor in Prem Ratan Dhan Payo may have started with hesitation, but it ultimately resulted in a beloved film that continues to be celebrated by fans of Indian cinema.