Before making his debut with Yash Raj Films’ Maharaj, Aamir Khan’s son Junaid Khan revealed he auditioned for two significant family projects – his father’s Laal Singh Chaddha and his stepmother Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies. In an interview with Vickey Lalwani, Junaid spoke about these experiences, shedding light on how budget constraints and casting decisions shaped the outcomes.
Junaid disclosed that he auditioned alongside Kiran Rao to play a mother-son duo in Laal Singh Chaddha. Reflecting on the process, he said, “We tested for 7-8 scenes over four days, amounting to about 20 minutes of footage. It was a test for me as well. Papa wanted to see how I dealt with the material. Ultimately, it didn’t work out, largely due to budget reasons. It was a very expensive film to put a new person in.”
Although he didn’t secure the role, the experience allowed Junaid to closely collaborate with his father, who co-produced the Indian remake of the iconic Forrest Gump.
Junaid also auditioned for the lead in Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies. However, the role went to Sparsh Shrivastava. Junaid reflected, “Kiran just said, ‘Sparsh Shrivastava is better for the part,’ and I agree with her. He was better suited for the role.”
Despite this, Junaid emphasized that his bond with Kiran Rao remained strong, adding, “She is a very fun and warm person, and we get along great.”
Directed by Kiran Rao and produced by Aamir Khan, Laapataa Ladies is a satirical comedy-drama set in rural India. The film follows two newlywed brides who mysteriously vanish during a train journey, leading to a quirky investigation filled with humor and social commentary. Featuring Sparsh Shrivastava and a talented ensemble cast, the film delivers a heartfelt narrative that blends local flavor with universal themes of identity and agency.
Laapataa Ladies has garnered acclaim for its wit and nuanced portrayal of small-town India. Although it was India’s official entry to the Oscars this year, it did not make the final nomination list.
