Anil Kapoor's Tip Led to Emraan Hashmi's Breakout Role in Bollywood Hit 'Chocolate'

In a recent interview, acclaimed filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri provided a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the making of his 2005 directorial debut, the multi-starrer 'Chocolate'. Agnihotri, who hailed from the advertising industry, explained how he stumbled into filmmaking and the serendipitous events that led to assembling the star-studded cast.

Agnihotri revealed that his first producer was from London, who had seen his earlier telefilm for Zee TV and insisted he make a film on the same topic, with the condition of casting Suniel Shetty and Arshad Warsi. Agnihotri then fortuitously bumped into Shetty's manager, who arranged a meeting with the actor, and Warsi also came on board after Agnihotri pitched the concept to him.

The director further disclosed that Anil Kapoor played a key role in the casting, suggesting the flamboyant, Casanova-like character be played by Emraan Hashmi, who Kapoor described as an actor who "can grab any girl and kiss her." This recommendation from the veteran star proved pivotal in launching Hashmi's breakout role in the film.

Agnihotri's own journey into filmmaking was equally serendipitous, as he had not initially dreamed of becoming a director, but the opportunity simply "happened" after his advertising work caught the eye of a London-based producer. With a talented ensemble cast and an unexpected path into the industry, 'Chocolate' went on to become a hit, marking the start of Agnihotri's successful career as a filmmaker.