Ameesha Patel Opens Up About Kareena Kapoor's Exit from Kaho Na Pyaar Hain

It marks 25 years since Hrithik Roshan made his debut in the Hindi film industry with the blockbuster Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai (2000). Known as the "Greek God of Bollywood," Hrithik wowed audiences with his dual roles as Rohit and Raj, charming fans with his effortless dance moves and undeniable on-screen chemistry with co-star Ameesha Patel. However, the film’s casting history includes a fascinating twist involving Kareena Kapoor Khan.

Originally, Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai was set to launch Hrithik alongside Kareena Kapoor Khan. Reports for years suggested Kareena exited the project due to a "misunderstanding" between her mother Babita Kapoor and Hrithik’s father, director Rakesh Roshan. But years later, Ameesha Patel offered a different narrative. Speaking to Bollywood Bubble, Ameesha revealed, “Actually, she (Kareena) didn’t back out. From what Rakesh ji told me, he asked her to leave the film because they were having differences.”

Despite Ameesha’s claims, Rakesh Roshan never publicly acknowledged asking Kareena to leave, instead attributing Babita’s "interference" as the reason for Kareena’s exit. Following her departure, Ameesha was cast within three days, and the rest is history.

While Hrithik and Ameesha made a memorable debut, Kareena launched her career later that year with Refugee opposite Abhishek Bachchan. Both newcomers bagged multiple debut awards, setting the stage for successful careers.

Though Hrithik and Kareena didn’t start their careers together, they teamed up for several hit films, including the iconic Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001). Their on-screen chemistry in Karan Johar’s family drama left audiences wanting more, sparking speculation about what could have been had they starred together in Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai.

Could Hrithik and Kareena’s pairing have surpassed the charm of Hrithik and Ameesha’s jodi? The debate continues as fans reflect on this Bollywood milestone.