5 Times Deepika Padukone Rejected Films That Became Massive Hits

Deepika Padukone was reportedly offered the lead role in Rockstar but had to decline due to scheduling conflicts. The role eventually went to Nargis Fakhri, who made her Bollywood debut alongside Ranbir Kapoor. Rockstar went on to receive critical acclaim and box office success, with its music and emotional narrative earning cult status.

Deepika Padukone was reportedly considered for a key role in Yash Chopra's romantic drama Jab Tak Hai Jaan, but she turned it down for reasons unknown. The part eventually went to Katrina Kaif, who starred opposite Shah Rukh Khan in the film. Upon its release, Jab Tak Hai Jaan became a major box office success and marked Yash Chopra’s final directorial venture. 

Deepika Padukone was reportedly approached for the lead role in Dhoom 3 but had to decline due to prior commitments. The role later went to Katrina Kaif, who brought glamour and action to the high-octane film. While Dhoom 3 turned out to be a massive blockbuster, many fans still wonder how Deepika’s charisma and screen presence might have added a different flair to the iconic franchise.

Deepika Padukone was reportedly offered the lead role in Sultan opposite Salman Khan but chose to turn it down for undisclosed reasons. The part eventually went to Anushka Sharma, who delivered a strong performance as wrestler Aarfa. Released in 2016, Sultan became a massive box office success, further solidifying Anushka’s position in the industry. 

Deepika Padukone was reportedly in talks for the lead role in Gangubai Kathiawadi but eventually chose not to take on the project. The role later went to Alia Bhatt, whose powerful performance earned widespread praise. While Deepika might have brought a different energy to the character, Alia’s portrayal turned out to be a career-defining milestone.