Missing from the frame: R Madhavan opens up about Rang De Basanti reunion absence

The cast of Rang De Basanti came together to mark 20 years of the film, and the internet instantly turned nostalgic. Photos and videos from the special screening began circulating within minutes, sending fans into an emotional spiral. Aamir Khan, Siddharth, Sharman Joshi, Kunal Kapoor, Atul Kulkarni and Soha Ali Khan were all present, smiling, hugging and reliving memories from a film that changed patriotic storytelling in India. But as the pictures went viral, one question echoed across social media: Where was R Madhavan?

The Missing Face At The Reunion

R. Madhavan, who played Flight Lieutenant Ajay Rathod in the film, was noticeably absent from the celebration. Fans were quick to notice and flooded comment sections asking about him.

The actor has now addressed the curiosity. He revealed that he was shooting abroad and couldn’t make it back in time for the event. He admitted he deeply missed being part of the evening and wished he could have celebrated with his co-stars.

He also shared that the reunion had originally been scheduled earlier this year but was postponed following the tragic plane crash in Baramati, Maharashtra. Out of respect for the unfortunate incident, the team chose not to go ahead with the celebration at that time.

Nostalgia, Cake And Before-After Frames

Soha Ali Khan gave fans a glimpse of the heartfelt evening through her Instagram. One video showed the cast cutting a cake to celebrate the film's 20th anniversary. Another slide featured a striking before-and-after collage of the actors from 2006 and today, a reminder of how time has passed, but the bond remains intact.

She captioned her post with warmth, noting that although a few members were missing, the group's spirit was very much alive. Producers Ronnie Screwvala, Siddharth Roy Kapur, and Ajit Andhare also joined the gathering, making it a full-circle moment for the team.

A Film That Still Feels Relevant

Directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, Rang De Basanti told the story of carefree youngsters who transform into voices of resistance after drawing inspiration from India’s freedom fighters. It struck a chord with an entire generation and sparked conversations about youth, responsibility and corruption.