Shah Rukh Khan could have been part of Tigmanshu Dhulia’s upcoming film Ghamasaan. But the superstar politely declined the lead role, telling the filmmaker that he does not do realistic films.
According to Hindustan Times, Dhulia revealed the exchange while promoting Ghamasaan, which stars Pratik Gandhi and Arshad Warsi. He said he first approached Khan after completing the script for the role eventually played by Gandhi — a police officer.
Dhulia recalled that he and Khan have known each other since their Dil Se days. He also played Khan’s father in Zero. After hearing the script, Khan told him, “Yaar Tishu, mein is tarah ki realistic pictures nahi karta hoon yaar,” meaning he does not make films of that realistic nature.
Dhulia said Khan’s reaction was understandable, praising the actor’s warmth and describing his heart as being “like a football field”.
Warsi agreed with Khan’s decision. “I get it. I also want to see him like a Tom Cruise. That’s all. That poor guy, if he does anything realistic then I will have a problem,” he said.
Dhulia takes aim at Dhurandhar
Dhulia has also drawn attention with his recent comments about Dhurandhar. Speaking to The Wire, he dismissed the film and argued that it has “no story”.
“If someone asks you about the story of Dhurandhar, you can’t tell it. There is a guy who goes to Pakistan aur vaha tabahi macha deta hai. Is this a story?” he said.
Dhulia argued that good storytelling has declined in films and linked the trend to extreme capitalism. He said people, fashion and even cities are beginning to look alike, leaving little room for individuality.
He cited his hometown Allahabad, now called Prayagraj, as an example. He said the city was once known for many distinct things but now resembles other cities, with the same malls and cars.
“This type of political system finishes your individuality,” he said.
Ghamasaan is described as a cat-and-mouse tale set in the Hindi heartland. The film explores male friendships and rivalries, including homoerotic tensions. Men on both sides of the law cross arid landscapes, where unexplored histories shape the story’s sense of place.
The film stars Pratik Gandhi and Arshad Warsi and will premiere on ZEE5 on 11 September.
