Imtiaz Ali was advised against casting Shahid Kareena in ‘Jab We Met’

Bollywood filmmaker Imtiaz Ali has revealed quite shockingly, that he was advised against casting A-listers Kareena Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor in his cult hit film ‘Jab We Met.’
Director Imtiaz Ali, who recently made a biopic film on Indian Punjabi singer ‘Amar Singh Chamkila’, said in a recent interview that he defied suggestions and cast Shahid and Kareena Kapoor in ‘Jab We Met’. The film proved to be a pivotal moment in their careers, achieving cult status over time.

Imtiaz Ali said, “Fortunately, I have had different opportunities in my career with the supposed success of, or the position of stars, to put it that way.”
He also said “I remember Shahid and Kareena visiting Jab We Met once. They were not doing well at the time. But it was very successful. You know, people really love that movie, don’t they? So, as a filmmaker, I believe I shouldn’t treat the film industry like the stock market,” said the filmmaker. “Making guesses isn’t what a film director, filmmaker, or producer should be focused on. Instead, we should recognize the potential of each actor for the roles we offer them.”

He concluded, “A film works when you cast the actor who is most appropriate for that part, not just whoever might be popular at the time. I believe that’s what I’ve learned from my experience.”