Deepak Tijori made a significant impact in Bollywood with notable films like Aashiqui, Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa, Anjaam and Khiladi. Now as a director, his latest film is Tipsy, Tijori recently shed light on his relationship with Shah Rukh Khan, revealing that Khan didn’t commit to Baazigar until Tijori gave him approval. He said, “We had an understanding that he wouldn’t say yes to Baazigar until he got it clear from me. After that happened, I gave Shah Rukh approval, after which he confirmed from me. Until then, he didn’t give them the green signal.”
In an interview with the Indian Express, Deepak Tijori discussed his long-standing friendship with Shah Rukh Khan and revealed some interesting details about their professional relationship. Tijori revealed that Shah Rukh did not accept his role in Baazigar until Tijori gave his consent.
According to Tijori, during their close friendship, they often spent time together socially and personally. Tijori recalled visiting Khan’s home to watch a VHS copy of A Kiss Before Dying. Since Tijori was already in talks with the film’s directors about the project, he was surprised to see it at Khan’s home. Shah Rukh casually revealed that the directors had sent him the film for the lead role, but he was waiting for Tijori’s approval before agreeing to it.
Tijori said that they had an agreement that Shah Rukh would not confirm his participation in Baazigar until Tijori gave his approval. Shah Rukh agreed to the role after Tijori gave his approval. Tijori stressed that the relationship between them remained positive and the final casting was just a matter of luck.
Deepak Tijori, who appeared in Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, said that he initially failed to audition for the film, but was later recommended by Aamir Khan. Tijori said that despite being rejected during the audition process, Aamir strongly advocated for his inclusion in the film with director Mansoor Khan, due to which he was finally cast in the film.
Tijori remembers being disappointed when he was called back after he was first rejected. He was focused on building his career, having recently completed Aashiqui and was busy with other projects. When Mahesh Bhatt called him to his home for a brief meeting, he was surprised to learn that he had to meet Mansoor Khan. Bhatt insisted, citing Aamir Khan’s recommendation, while Tijori was skeptical about his previous rejection.
While shooting for Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, Tijori was initially unprepared and was not in good physical shape, which was evident in his first scenes. Both Aamir and Mansoor were concerned about his preparation. However, Tijori revealed that he dedicated himself to intense training to fit into the role of Shekhar Malhotra. Reflecting on his efforts, he expressed satisfaction that his hard work paid off, as his performance continues to resonate with people even decades later.
Directed by Mansoor Khan, Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar also featured Ayesha Jhulka and Pooja Bedi apart from Aamir and Deepak.
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