Amitabh turned down Maharathi

Amitabh Bachchan was offered the main lead in Maharathi but since he declined the part, it went to Naseeruddin Shah.

Actor Paresh Rawal who had directed the original Gujarati play by the same on which the film is based tells us, "Yeah Amitji said that he had not done such roles earlier and was skeptical about it. He was kind enough to say that he did not want to do it. So it was okay with me. He had his own reasons."

Paresh says, "The play has gone through a lot of cinematic changes. Of course we had to cut out a lot of dialogues so that the audience does not get bored. We also moved the play to a lot of different locations to make it more spicy and crispy," says Rawal."

So was a lot of stuff left out for the play? "Yes, we have been associated with the play right from 1987. It is hard to kill your darlings but then we had to move on because it was a film. Vikram Bhatt was supposed to direct it earlier but he got busy with his production house and suggested Shivam Nair's name."

The multi-faceted actor has now deviated towards serious roles after a series of comedy flicks. "I want to do a variety of roles. I think it's time I change over. I love doing comedies but I am tired of stupid and mindless comedies.

So was production the next step for him? Is direction the next one? "Yes I always wanted to produce films so that I could make something that I really desire to. I will take up direction after two to three years. I have something on my mind and am looking forward to taking it further," Rawal concludes.