20 Years of Barsaat: Suneel Darshan reveals why Akshay Kumar was replaced in the film 20 : Bollywood News

What spurred you to launch Barsaat?
The success of Andaaz (2003) and the tremendous potential of Priyanka Chopra’s histrionics excited me to launch Barsaat: A Sublime Love Story (2005). It was conceived as a triangular love story that was originally set to feature Akshay Kumar opposite Priyanka and Katrina Kaif. However, after an initial shooting spell, a reshuffle of dates led to Bobby Deol and Bipasha Basu replacing Akshay and Katrina.

20 Years of Barsaat: Suneel Darshan reveals why Akshay Kumar was replaced in the film

What was it like shooting with Priyanka Chopra a second time?
While Priyanka had portrayed a modern, urbane character in Andaaz, her role in Barsaat was a complete contrast. It gave her the opportunity to play a character with great dignity and sensitivity. I would rate this among her finest performances — a role that reflects the essence of a true Indian woman of substance.

The music was a plus?
Every song composed by Nadeem-Shravan, with lyrics by Sameer, added to the storytelling. Coupled with eye-pleasing visuals, the soundtrack became a huge asset. The film enjoyed a successful theatrical run and continues to rate high on satellite and digital platforms even today.

The Akshay-Priyanka pair had to be broken because Akshay’s wife objected to it?
Tons has been written on this, so I feel it is best to move on. The beautiful title song, shot on Akshay and Priyanka, remains testimony to how a promising film in the making suffered due to rumours.

Also Read: SHOCKING: Suneel Darshan reveals he is apprehensive about holding Andaaz 2 premiere due to TRAUMATIC Barsaat premiere experience: “BASHING by vested interests was unexpected; it collected £500,000 in UK and would have earned much MORE had the bashing not happened”