Bollywood actress Soha Ali Khan, daughter of veteran actress Sharmila Tagore and sister of Saif Ali Khan, recently shared an unexpected chapter from her early career. In a candid conversation with one of the media houses, Soha revealed that she was originally set to debut in Bollywood with Shah Rukh Khan’s 2005 film Paheli, but the role ultimately went to Rani Mukerji after Shah Rukh came on board.
Soha Ali Khan
Recalling the incident, Soha said it was supposed to be her first film, and she had even quit her well-paying job at Citibank to pursue the opportunity. “I had just left my job, where my salary was good, and I was paying a rent of 17,000 rupees. My plan was to move to London if I got a work permit,” she explained. However, filmmaker Amol Palekar approached her with the script of Paheli and encouraged her to take the role, assuring her it would require a few months of work.
Soha Ali Khan
Soha admitted she was inexperienced and unaware of how uncertain film commitments could be. “At that time, I didn’t understand that unless you’re signed and shooting, nothing is guaranteed,” she said. Trusting the offer, she left her banking job to prepare for the film. Soon after, Palekar informed her that Shah Rukh Khan had agreed to star in the project. Initially, Soha was thrilled, believing this was great news, but she was soon told that Shah Rukh’s involvement meant she would no longer be part of the cast.
Soha Ali Khan
“That’s when I wondered how I would pay my rent or what to do next,” she recalled. Eventually, Rani Mukerji replaced her in the film. Despite the setback, Soha remained determined to act. She went on to make her Bollywood debut the same year with Dil Maange More opposite Shahid Kapoor, directed by Anant Mahadevan. The actress has since carved a niche for herself with memorable performances in films like Rang De Basanti and Tum Mile, proving her resilience and talent despite an uncertain start.