What was the initial casting plan for 'Josh'?

Mansoor Khan had initially envisioned Kajol, Shah Rukh Khan's frequent co-star, as his twin in the film, but she declined the role, feeling it would be "sacrilege" to play his sister.

How did Aishwarya Rai's performance as Shirley in 'Josh' impact the film?

Director Mansoor Khan fondly recalls Aishwarya's dedication and how perfectly she fit the role of Shirley, Shah Rukh Khan's twin sister in the film.

How did 'Josh' challenge traditional Bollywood tropes?

The film's unconventional casting of Shah Rukh Khan and Aishwarya Rai as twin siblings was considered controversial at the time, as both actors were known for their romantic on-screen personas.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Bollywood's Iconic Twins: 25 Years of 'Josh' and Its Daring Casting

Bollywood's Iconic Twins: 25 Years of 'Josh' and Its Daring Casting

27 Oct

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Summary

'Josh' celebrated its 25th anniversary in June 2025
Shah Rukh Khan and Aishwarya Rai played unconventional twin siblings
Director Mansoor Khan initially envisioned Kajol as Shah Rukh's twin

Bollywood's Iconic Twins: 25 Years of 'Josh' and Its Daring Casting

This month marks the 25th anniversary of the release of the Bollywood drama 'Josh', which hit theaters on June 9, 2000. The film, directed by Mansoor Khan, was known for its unique blend of genres, including a musical action-drama set in Goa.

One of the most notable aspects of 'Josh' was its unconventional casting, with Shah Rukh Khan and Aishwarya Rai playing twin siblings, Max and Shirley. This sibling pairing was considered controversial at the time, as both actors were known for their romantic on-screen personas. However, Mansoor Khan was determined to challenge the traditional tropes of Bollywood films.

Interestingly, Mansoor Khan had initially envisioned Kajol, Shah Rukh's frequent co-star, as his twin. However, Kajol declined the role, feeling it would be "sacrilege" to play his sister. Ultimately, Aishwarya Rai stepped in and elevated the character of Shirley, with the director fondly recalling her dedication and how perfectly she fit the part.