When Aishwarya Rai rejected a grand opportunity to work with Sanjay Leela Bhansali because of Salman Khan

Today marks the 11th anniversary of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Ram Leela, the romantic tragedy that became a major success, propelling Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh to even greater heights—both professionally and personally. But did you know that Aishwarya Rai Bachchan could have made a spectacular Bollywood comeback in the film? She turned down the opportunity, and the reason behind it was Salman Khan. Here are the untold details!

It’s well known that Kareena Kapoor Khan was Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s first choice for Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram Leela. She had even signed the film, but just a week before shooting was due to begin, she unexpectedly exited. Rumours suggest that Anushka Sharma was approached before Kareena, but Bhansali avoided another potential rift with the actress following their fallout on Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. Deepika Padukone ultimately bagged the leading role, partly due to her stellar performance in Cocktail.

One of the film's most iconic moments was the title track, Ram Chahe Leela. Bhansali spent a staggering ?6 crore on creating the elaborate set and lavish costumes. However, what many don't know is that Aishwarya Rai Bachchan was initially approached for the dance number.

After the release of Guzaarish, Aishwarya took a break from acting to focus on her family, welcoming her first and only child, Aaradhya Bachchan, with husband Abhishek Bachchan. The Ram Leela song could have marked a sizzling Bollywood comeback for the actress, but there was a twist. Initially, the song was titled “Thappad Se Darr Nahin Lagta, Pyar Se Lagta Hai”—a famous line from Salman Khan’s blockbuster Dabangg. To avoid any association with her past relationship with Salman, Aishwarya reportedly asked Bhansali to change the lyrics. Bhansali, however, refused her request.

Interestingly, Priyanka Chopra was simultaneously approached for the same song, albeit with different lyrics. The exact reasons for Bhansali’s decision remain unclear, but Priyanka quickly agreed to take on the role and delivered a stellar performance in Ram Chahe Leela.

While Priyanka undoubtedly nailed the performance, we can't help but wonder how Aishwarya would have fared in the iconic number. Perhaps one day we’ll get to see her back on the dance floor in a similar, sizzling role!