Salman Khan’s character ‘Aman’ in Karan Johar’s Kuch Kuch Hota Hai is celebrated as one of the sweetest and most memorable roles in Hindi cinema. Despite having a minor part in the film, his influence was significant, and his performance is still fondly remembered. At the time, it was quite unusual for a star of Salman Khan’s stature to accept a small cameo in a project featuring big names like Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, and Rani Mukerji. Nevertheless, he took on the role and captured the hearts of audiences.
Filmmaker Karan Johar, who made his directorial debut with this iconic film, recently shared insights into how he managed to convince Salman Khan to take on the role after the actor initially declined it. An old interview clip of Karan with Dekho resurfaced on Reddit, sparking new interest in this story. In the interview, he recounted an encounter that took place while he was visiting Salman Khan’s sister, Alvira, at her home. The star was also present, and during their conversation, Salman casually inquired, “Kaun hai tumhare picture mein?”
Karan responded that he had Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol as the leads and was searching for someone suitable for a special appearance. He admitted, “I really didn’t think Salman would ever do it. So I just tell him like that as information.” To Karan’s surprise, Salman expressed interest in the part. Karan elaborated, “Toh he said, ‘Kitne din ka kaam hai?’ I said, ’12-15 din ka kaam hai. Toh he said, ‘Main karunga’. I said, ‘Tum karoge? Really?’” Salman confirmed his willingness to participate, saying, “Haan, come and narrate it to me.”
When Karan narrated the story, Salman appreciated it and asked for remuneration—“Big money at that time. Very very big money.” Karan relayed this to his father, who responded, “It doesn’t fit into the budget and all unfortunately. However wonderful Salman is, we can’t.” With no other options, Karan offered the role to Saif Ali Khan, but Saif turned it down, stating, “It’s a wonderful story lekin main, I don’t want to take the risk.”
Feeling disheartened, Karan’s friends invited him to a party hosted by Chunky Pandey that same night. There, he encountered Salman again, who noticed Karan’s troubled demeanor and inquired, “Why are you looking so low?” Karan tried to downplay his feelings by saying, “No, no, nothing nothing. I’m just not feeling very well.” Salman probed further, asking, “Sabke pass gaye tum? 3-4 hero, you went hero shopping?” Karan merely replied, “Yeah but it’ll happen.”
Later, Salman summoned Karan for another meeting. “I am doing your film. I like you. I like your father. You pay me what you want.” This revelation led Karan to agree, stating, “This is what I can do, and I’ll give you this much more if the film does well.” In the end, this arrangement worked out, as Salman’s performance as Aman was nothing short of wonderful.
This incident underscores Salman Khan’s ability to navigate friendships in the industry while also adhering to his terms. Karan Johar’s sincere efforts and persistent approach made it possible for audiences to enjoy this iconic performance. As the narrative unfolds, it’s clear that these connections enhance not only the films but also the relationships within Bollywood. With fond memories of Salman’s cameo and the impact of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai still resonating, fans can only speculate what Karan Johar’s next project may bring.
