Key Points

Rukhsar Rehman shares how she almost starred opposite Salman Khan in Sanam Bewafa but had to step back due to contract disagreements. She later reunited with Salman in God Tussi Great Ho, playing his sister. The actress reflects on her journey, from debuting with Rishi Kapoor to now seeing her daughter Aisha enter the industry. With resilience, she embraces the highs and lows of Bollywood.

Key Points: Rukhsar Rehman Reveals She Almost Starred Opposite Salman Khan in Sanam Bewafa

  • Rukhsar was set to play lead in Sanam Bewafa but contract issues halted it
  • Later worked with Salman Khan in God Tussi Great Ho as his sister
  • Started career at 17 with Rishi Kapoor in Inteha Pyar Ki
  • Daughter Aisha is now following her footsteps into acting
3 min read

I was supposed to act opposite Salman in 'Sanam Bewafa' but.., recalls actress Rukhsar Rehman

Actress Rukhsar Rehman recalls missing Sanam Bewafa lead role due to contract issues but later worked with Salman Khan in God Tussi Great Ho.

"I was to do that film (Sanam Bewafa) but my father was not okay with that contract. - Rukhsar Rehman"

Mumbai, August 10

Hailing from Uttar Pradesh, Rukhsar Rehman, with no film background, entered the world of movies in the 90s when she was just a teenager.

And now in 2025, after navigating the many ups and downs of her personal and professional journey, Rukshar, stands tall with pride and no regrets, holding a diverse portfolio which encompasses Bollywood films, web series, and even multiple brand endorsements.

In a candid chat with ANI, Rukhsar reflected on her career built on hard work and resilience, sharing insights on working with Salman Khan.

She has worked with Salman in Rumi Jaffery's 'God Tussi Great Ho' in 2008. But what many don't know is that she was actually supposed to play the lead opposite Salman in 'Sanam Bewafa'.

"I was to do that film (Sanam Bewafa) but that film had a contract, and my father was not okay with that contract. He said, 'we won't be able to do it.' I had already filmed for 3-4 days before the things changed. Interestingly, the makers went ahead with the character's name 'Rukhsar' only," she recalled.

"But years later, I got the opportunity to work with Salman again. I played the role of his sister in 'God Tussi Great Ho'. Had a great time working on that film," she added.

Rukhsar believes that while destiny plays a significant role in life, it's never easy to process when a project doesn't work out or an opportunity slips away. She admits that she used to feel anxious often, but over time, she has learned to cope with these challenges, viewing them as a "part and parcel" of the acting profession.

"I used to get anxious. Agar kabhi kuch kaam nahi hota tha .. audition dene ke baad sochti rehti thi ki mujhe role milega ya nahi but now I know how to deal with such situations. Ab thoda sabar agaya hai mujhme with time. (I have become more patient with time). I feel this is all part and parcel of the profession," Rukhsar expressed.

From working with late Rishi Kapoor at 17 in 'Inteha Pyar Ki' to bagging pivotal roles in films such 'D', 'Sarkar', 'PK', and ''Uri: The Surgical Stike', Rukhsar has come a long way. Not only Rukhsar but her daughter Aisha is also an actress.

"I am so proud of Aisha. She is doing so good. She also recently walked the ramp and it was really commendable," Rukhsar said in a voice that reflected happiness.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul R
Interesting that they kept her name Rukhsar in Sanam Bewafa even after she left the project! Shows how much they valued her. But destiny had other plans - she still got to work with Bhai later in God Tussi Great Ho.
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Aman W
Respect for her father's decision. In the 90s, film contracts could be tricky. Many young actors got exploited. Her family prioritized her safety over stardom - that's real love.
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Sarah B
Her perspective on handling rejection is so mature. "Part and parcel of the profession" - this is valuable advice for all aspiring actors. The industry needs more voices like hers that normalize struggles.
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Vikram M
While I admire her journey, I wish she had spoken more about the specific challenges faced by outsiders in Bollywood. The article glosses over how difficult it must have been without any industry connections.
D
Divya L
From Inteha Pyar Ki to URI - what a range! And now her daughter continuing the legacy ❤️ True example of women supporting women in the industry. More power to them!
K
Karan T
Her work in Sarkar was underrated! Glad to see her getting recognition now. Hope we see more of her in meaningful roles rather than just mother/sister

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