Mukesh Chhabra Reveals 3 Actors Said NO To ‘Rehmaan Dakait’ Akshaye Khanna’s Role Amid Dhurandhar The Revenge’s Success; Says, “Ranveer Was The First To Be On Board”

Casting director Mukesh Chhabra recently shared insights into the two-year casting journey behind Aditya Dhar’s highly anticipated sequel, Dhurandhar The Revenge aka Dhurandhar 2. The film hit theaters on March 19. Starring Ranveer Singh, the film has been making waves since its release. In a candid interview, Mukesh discussed the extensive casting process for the spy thriller, recalling that several actors initially declined the popular role of Rehmaan Dakait, ultimately played by Akshaye Khanna.

Mukesh Chhabra Reveals 3 Actors Said NO To Akshaye Khanna’s Role

In an interview with Bollywood Hungama, Mukesh revealed, “I was narrated the story for four hours. I was in shock—didn’t even take a break or realize how much time had passed. Even with my experience in casting numerous films, this one felt overwhelming. We needed to find so many characters and fresh faces—it was a massive undertaking.”

He continued, “When combining both parts of the film, I cast around 400 people. I assembled a team of six and began the search. Aditya gave me complete freedom and encouraged me to think big. He wanted to surprise the audience. He was confident that this film would break records and that every role would be loved.”

Ranveer Was The FIRST To Be On Board

Mukesh also revealed that Ranveer Singh was the first actor to sign on for Dhurandhar. “Many people declined various roles along the way, but Aditya remained calm, asking me to find other actors. We spent nearly two years researching and casting. We started at the beginning of 2024. It was always clear that Ranveer would play Hamza, and he accepted instantly because he was also waiting for the right project.”

Regarding convincing Akshaye Khanna to take on the role of the antagonist Rehmaan Dakait, Mukesh explained, “I can’t name names, but 2-3 actors declined his role. I believe they regret that decision now. One actor from the South and two from Bollywood had strange reasons. They said it was an ensemble cast and that the film primarily belonged to Ranveer. But Aditya quickly moved past those negative thoughts.”

Mukesh On Casting Sara Arjun

Talking about casting Sara Arjun as Yalina Jamali, Mukesh shared, “I received messages from several actors wanting to play opposite Ranveer. Aditya and I were approached multiple times. I told him we needed someone without any baggage—someone fresh—so the audience would believe she’s Yalina. I wanted to keep it a surprise, and we conducted over 1,000 auditions for her role.”

Meanwhile, Dhurandhar 2 has already grossed over Rs 1500 crore worldwide. Alongside Ranveer Singh, the film features Sanjay Dutt, R Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Rakesh Bedi, Danish Pandor, and Sara Arjun.

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Also Read: Dhurandhar The Revenge: Pakistani Cop Chaudhary Aslam’s Wife Reveals THIS Scene Of Sanjay Dutt In Ranveer Singh Starrer Makes Her Remember Him

Akankshya Mukherjee

Akankshya Mukherjee is a dynamic and ambitious individual poised to make waves in the realm of Media and Communication. With a passion for creativity and a drive to contribute to forward-thinking organizations, Akankshya embodies adaptability and a hunger for learning. Having already garnered experience through involvement in various organizations, she has honed the skill of quickly adapting to new environments and challenges. She sees each opportunity as a chance for personal and professional growth, eagerly embracing roles in communications and content writing.