Sushmita Sen, known for her elegance and acting prowess, has won the hearts of millions throughout her 25-year career. One of her most loved roles came in the 2004 film Main Hoon Na, directed by Farah Khan. Playing the role of a graceful teacher, Sushmita’s chemistry with Shah Rukh Khan became iconic. However, what many don’t know is that Farah Khan once apologized to Sushmita for giving her a role that she felt was too small.
Why Did Farah Khan Apologize to Sushmita Sen?
In an interview last year with Humans of Bombay, Sushmita Sen shared an interesting story. After the final cut of Main Hoon Na was completed, Farah Khan reached out to Sushmita with a heartfelt apology. Farah admitted that the film focused more on the characters played by Shah Rukh Khan, Zayed Khan, and Amrita Rao, leaving Sushmita with very little screen time.
Farah said, “Sush, I need to apologize. Your role is much smaller than I thought, and the other characters dominate the story. I feel bad about it.”
Despite Farah’s apology, Sushmita graciously responded, assuring Farah that they had a deal, and she was happy to keep her promise. Deep down, however, Sushmita did feel that her role could have been more substantial.
The Power of Sushmita’s Character in Main Hoon Na
While Sushmita’s role in Main Hoon Na was indeed brief, her character, Chandni Chopra, made a lasting impact. Audiences fell in love with her grace, especially when she appeared in stunning sarees alongside Shah Rukh Khan. The chemistry between the two actors was so powerful that, despite her limited screen time, Sushmita became one of the standout stars of the film. Her fans were captivated by her presence, turning what could have been a minor role into a memorable one.
Yash Chopra’s Appreciation for Sushmita
During the screening of Main Hoon Na, another industry giant, Yash Chopra, praised Sushmita for her work. Sushmita recalled receiving a call from the legendary filmmaker, which left her nervous. However, when Yash Chopra spoke to her, he couldn’t stop praising her performance. He told her, “I couldn’t take my eyes off you. You should have been in every frame of the film.”
This heartfelt appreciation from such a respected figure in the industry reaffirmed that, despite the small role, Sushmita had made a huge impact on the audience.
Sushmita’s Lasting Legacy in Main Hoon Na
Even though her role was limited, the impact of Sushmita Sen in Main Hoon Na went beyond the film. A day after its release, Sushmita and Shah Rukh appeared on every poster together, symbolizing the undeniable chemistry and star power she brought to the movie.
The film may have been centered around other characters, but Sushmita’s performance remains unforgettable.
