Shah Rukh Khan with Gayatri Joshi, Salman Khan, Alia Bhatt: Rare first audition pictures of Bollywood actors

Although Alia Bhatt made her debut with a major production house, she gradually carved her own space through consistent performances. Films such as ‘Highway’, ‘2 States’, ‘Dear Zindagi’, ‘Raazi’ and ‘Gully Boy’ reflect her evolving craft and versatility. With Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s ‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’ becoming a major talking point, her rise feels well-earned. But before portraying powerful characters on screen, Alia too went through the audition process that marked the beginning of her acting journey.

Though ‘Swades’ didn’t create box-office history, it earned cult status over time. The film showcased Shah Rukh Khan in a refreshingly restrained role, supported by a carefully chosen cast. Director Ashutosh Gowariker was meticulous in his selections, which is why characters like Mohan, Geeta and Kaveri Amma still resonate. Gayatri Joshi’s casting is a fine example of how the right audition can leave a lasting impact.

Before winning hearts as Prem in ‘Maine Pyaar Kiya’, Salman Khan faced rejection at his first audition. Director Sooraj Barjatya initially felt he didn’t fit the part, with other actors being considered instead. Recalling the moment, Barjatya once said, “When he first came to my office, I remember he was sitting at the reception and he looked very small. It was the second audition that we liked and we finalised him.” That second chance went on to change Salman’s career forever.

Anushka Sharma made a memorable debut opposite Shah Rukh Khan in ‘Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi’ and steadily built a strong career. Beyond acting, she ventured into production with Clean Slate Filmz, backing projects like ‘NH10’, ‘Phillauri’, ‘Pari’ and ‘Bulbbul’. Interestingly, before her debut, Anushka had also auditioned for ‘3 Idiots’. She later revealed that she had tried out for the role that eventually went to Kareena Kapoor Khan.

Before becoming a familiar face in mainstream cinema, Jacqueline Fernandez trained at the Barry John Acting Studio. She later went on to work with stars such as Salman Khan, Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan. With films like ‘Bhoot Police’ and ‘Bachchan Pandey’ drawing attention, her journey highlights how auditions played a key role in securing her first major break.

Kriti Sanon entered Bollywood with ‘Heropanti’, sharing screen space with Tiger Shroff and winning the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut. Over the years, her filmography has seen a mix of successes and setbacks, including projects like ‘Bachchan Pandey’. What many don’t know is that before landing ‘Heropanti’, Kriti had auditioned for other roles as well, navigating the usual rejections that come with the industry.

Ranveer Singh burst onto the scene with ‘Band Baaja Baarat’, instantly grabbing attention for his energy and confidence. The real turning point came with ‘Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela’, after which successes like ‘Bajirao Mastani’, ‘Padmaavat’, ‘Dil Dhadakne Do’, ‘Simmba’ and ‘Gully Boy’ followed. Today, he is known for balancing commercial hits with critically acclaimed roles. However, before all the applause, Ranveer had to prove himself during auditions for ‘Band Baaja Baarat’.