Nearly three decades after the release of the iconic Karan Arjun, director Rakesh Roshan has revealed his picks for a modern-day reimagining of the beloved Bollywood classic. In a recent interview with Etimes, Roshan suggested his son Hrithik Roshan and Ranbir Kapoor as the ideal pair to step into the shoes of Karan and Arjun, originally played by Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan.
No Plans for a Sequel or Remake
Despite the excitement surrounding the cult film’s re-release on November 22, 2024, Roshan clarified that he has no intentions of making a sequel or remaking the original. “I won’t remake Karan Arjun or make a sequel,” he stated. However, when asked to speculate about a contemporary duo for the film, he said, “If I were to think of an alternate jodi (duo) for the movie today, I would cast Hrithik Roshan as Karan and Ranbir Kapoor as Arjun.”
Why Salman and SRK Were Perfect for the Original
Reflecting on the original casting, Roshan explained why he chose Salman and Shah Rukh for the 1995 blockbuster. “Salman’s physique was exceptionally good. None of the actors of that time had his build. He started the fit body trend,” he shared. He also praised Salman’s expressive eyes, saying, “I wanted someone for Karan’s role, who is silent yet whose eyes speak volumes. He fit the bill perfectly.”
On Shah Rukh, Roshan said, “I had worked with him in King Uncle (1993) and liked him immensely in Fauji. I wanted him to be Arjun.”
Hrithik Celebrates the Re-Release
Hrithik Roshan, who served as an assistant director for Karan Arjun, expressed his excitement about the re-release. Taking to Instagram, he wrote, “Cinema was never the same again… When Karan Arjun came together on the big screen for the first time ever. Relive the reincarnation of Karan Arjun in theatres worldwide from 22nd November 2024!”
The Legacy of Karan Arjun
Released in 1995, Karan Arjun became a massive hit, blending action, drama, and reincarnation in a way that resonated with audiences. The film, featuring iconic performances by Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan, remains a benchmark for Bollywood buddy films. With the upcoming re-release, fans will have the chance to relive the magic on the big screen.
Sources By Agencies