Smriti Irani reveals she refused to audition for Farhan Akhtar’s ‘Dil Chahta Hai’; said no to pan masala ads and dancing at weddings |

Smriti Irani gained fame through the popular show ‘Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi‘ where she portrayed Tulsi Virani. She recently reminisced about starting with low pay due to her lack of experience but became unstoppable after a few years in acting. She also reflected on missed opportunities like ‘Dil Chahta Hai.’
During an interview with Brut, Smriti Irani revealed that when she departed, she held the title of the highest-paid actor in Indian television.However, she had specific conditions. Despite missing out on lucrative opportunities, such as endorsing pan masala or attending weddings for financial gain, Irani maintained a distinct professional identity and personal integrity.

Continuing, Smriti Irani elaborated on her choices, stating that she prioritized her family responsibilities and desired to maintain dignity in her acting career. Despite being offered lead roles in movies during the initial three months of ‘KSBKBT,’ she declined them as she had decided to start a family. One notable film she turned down was ‘Dil Chahta Hai,’ even refusing to audition for it, which surprised many given its significance.

When questioned about the specific role she was offered, Smriti clarified that it wasn’t Preity Zinta‘s role in ‘Dil Chahta Hai.’ Instead, it was one of the other prominent female characters in the film.

Farhan Akhtar debuted as a director with ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ in 2001, featuring Aamir Khan, Akshaye Khanna, and Saif Ali Khan. The film also starred Preity Zinta, Sonali Kulkarni, and Dimple Kapadia. In 2003, Smriti entered politics and became the Vice-President of the Maharashtra Youth Wing.