Renowned filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya, known for his successful collaborations with Salman Khan in films like Hum Aapke Hain Koun and Hum Saath Saath Hain, recently revealed why he chose Shahid Kapoor over Salman Khan for the 2006 hit Vivah. While Khan had been part of many of Barjatya’s earlier projects, the director made a conscious decision to cast younger actors in Vivah, which called for a sense of innocence and youthfulness.

In an insightful conversation with Digital Commentary, Barjatya shared the thought process behind his decision. “After Main Prem Ki Diwani Hoon flopped, Salman called and said, ‘Let’s work on something’. But at that time, I didn’t have a story for Salman and this (Vivah) was a story that my father had given me,” Barjatya recalled. He noted that although he and Khan had worked together before, Vivah required a different approach.

Barjatya explained that he had set a clear intention early in his career to never compromise on the integrity of his vision. He said, “When I decided I wanted to make this, I knew Salman wouldn’t fit here because he was a major star. This film needed a sense of innocence, of youth, and you can’t stop age.” It was precisely these qualities that he believed were necessary for Vivah’s characters.

The film, which revolved around the traditional Indian marriage setup, required actors who could convey purity and innocence, traits often associated with youth. Barjatya continued, “Isme bholapan chahiye, umar chahiye aur umar toh kisiki rukegi nahi. Toh fir yeh Shahid aur Amrita ki casting hui.” (This film needed innocence and age, and age doesn’t stop for anyone. That’s how Shahid and Amrita were cast.)

Shahid Kapoor, at the time, was relatively new to the industry, and Barjatya believed his fresh-faced look and earnestness were perfect for the role. Alongside Amrita Rao, who played the female lead, Shahid’s portrayal of a young man navigating the intricacies of love and marriage helped establish Vivah as a memorable romantic drama.

Barjatya’s decision not only solidified Shahid Kapoor’s place in the industry but also reinforced his commitment to making films that resonated with simplicity and authenticity.