In an exclusive and candid conversation with Film Window, acclaimed filmmaker Rajiv Rai dropped a bombshell that’s bound to get Bollywood fans talking. Speaking about his 1997 suspense thriller Gupt, Rai revealed that the film’s iconic female lead was written entirely with Kajol in mind, and no one else was ever considered.
“Kajol ko hi mind mein rakh ke likha tha. Mujhe laga tha woh bohot acchi performance degi, aur usko yeh film karni chahiye,” Rai confessed with absolute certainty. His words left no room for doubt, Kajol wasn’t just his first choice; she was the only choice.
What’s more surprising? Despite being a huge admirer of Sridevi, watching her films and calling her “a great actress,” Rai never once thought of approaching her for the role. “Mainne Sridevi ko kabhi consider hi nahi kiya. Agar Kajol mana kar deti, toh shayad yeh film banti hi nahi,” he admitted, making it clear how strongly he felt about his casting decision.
The revelation is striking because the ’90s were dominated by Sridevi’s unmatched stardom. Choosing anyone else in such an era was a gamble. But Rai’s instincts told him Kajol’s fiery energy, raw intensity, and magnetic screen presence were exactly what Gupt needed. That gut feeling paid off. Gupt became a massive hit, celebrated not only for its gripping plot twist and chartbuster music but also for Kajol’s unforgettable performance, one that challenged perceptions and broke stereotypes about Hindi film heroines. The role even fetched her the Filmfare Award for Best Villain, making history in the process.
Rajiv Rai’s admission today adds a fresh, emotional layer to Gupt’s legacy. It’s a reminder that in filmmaking, sometimes a single conviction, one unwavering belief in the right actor, can help create a moment in cinema that’s remembered for decades.
