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'Dhurandhar': Rakesh Bedi's role was 1st offered to other actors
07 Apr 2026

Rakesh Bedi's quirky portrayal of Jameel Jamali in the Dhurandhar duology has been widely appreciated.

However, Mukesh Chhabra, the casting director, has now revealed that Bedi was not their first choice for the role.

In an interview with Bollywood Hungama, Chhabra said two to three actors had turned down the part before they approached Bedi.

'I don't want to take their names...'
Casting challenges

Chhabra said, "It is a problem in our industry. Once people see an actor in a certain kind of role, they keep casting them in the same space again and again."

"I always feel we should go a little against that thinking for a part like this."

"Also two to three people had said no. I don't want to take their names. I respect all the actors."

Aditya Dhar suggested Bedi for the role
Decision-making process

Chhabra recalled that the decision to cast Bedi was made during a discussion with director Aditya Dhar.

"I remember everyone had refused, and I was sitting with Aditya in his room."

"He said, what do you think about Rakesh Bedi? He had worked with us in one scene in Uri."

"I said I was also thinking the same. He is the kind of person who never forgets if someone has helped him early in his career."

Bedi said yes without hearing the story
Quick agreement

Chhabra said he immediately contacted Bedi and assured him of a strong role.

"I called him and said a very big role is coming. Don't worry. Talk to Aditya."

"I gave the phone to Aditya and told him just say yes. He said yes immediately."

"He did not even hear the story. He just trusted me and Aditya and said let's do it."

Chhabra says, Bedi 'surprised people'
Audience reaction

Chhabra said Bedi's performance surprised audiences and proved his point that actors should not be typecast.

"He surprised people. This is what happens when you don't look at actors only in fixed kinds of roles."

"Rakesh Bedi came to my office and said Mukesh ji I am getting so much love after 49 years."

"He became a little emotional. I met his wife and his kids, and everyone is so happy."

Meanwhile, Dhurandhar 2 is still playing in cinemas.