- By Aarushi Raina
- Sun, 07 Sep 2025 03:56 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Nayak Turns 24: The film, Nayak: The Real Hero, which delivered a compelling storyline of 'One-Day CM', has turned 24 since its release on September 7, 2001. Directed by S Shankar, the political movie starred Anil Kapoor, Rani Mukerji and late actor Amrish Puri. Marking this milestone, Anil posted stills from Nayak with some revelations about the casting of his role. He admitted that he was not the first choice; Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan were initially offered the role of Shivaji Rao. However, Anil did justice to the character and made it one of the iconic ones in Hindi film history. He also recalled the wise words of SRK, who told him that the role was meant for him.
Anil Kapoor Celebrates 24 Years Of Nayak
On Sunday, Anil took to his Instagram and shared stills of himself in the character of Shivaji Rao along with photos featuring Shah Rukh Khan and AR Rahman at the film’s audio release event in 2001. Sharing the post, he wrote, "Some roles define you. Nayak was one of them First offered to Aamir & Shah Rukh, but I knew I had to live this character… and I’m grateful Shankar sir trusted me. I’ll always cherish Shah Rukh’s words on that stage: “This role was meant for Anil." Moments like these stay forever. #24YearsOfNayak."
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Back in 2001, in an interview with Filmfare, director Shankar revealed that he first approached Aamir Khan to play the journalist-turned-politician in the film. He said, “But the two of us faced a huge communication gap. His views about Mudhalvan (1999) didn’t match mine, so I quickly moved on.”
On approaching Shah Rukh after Aamir, Nayak director stated, “Shah Rukh was more receptive than Aamir but he begged off saying that since he had played a television reporter in his home production Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani (2000) which had just been released, he wasn’t keen on taking on a similar role at such a short interval.”
However, Anil essayed the role and brought the character to life on screen perfectly.
About Nayak
Nayak: The Real Hero starring Anil Kapoor in the lead role alongside Rani Mukerji, late Amrish Puri, Johny Lever and Paresh Rawal in key roles. Directed by S Shankar, the film is a remake of the Tamil hit Mudhalvan.
The story centres around Shivaji Rao Gaekwad (played by Anil), a TV journalist who challenges the corrupt Chief Minister (played by Amrish Puri) during a live interview. The CM dares him to take over his position for one day. Shivaji accepts the offer and, in just 24 hours, exposes corruption, implements new reforms and wins the people’s support. Although he initially wanted a peaceful life as a journalist, Shivaji eventually becomes the Chief Minister with the people's support.
