Why Priyanka Chopra Almost Left a Film to Play Kashibai Instead of Mastani

Kavita Mishra

Why Priyanka Chopra Almost Left a Film to Play Kashibai Instead of Mastani

Priyanka Chopra’s remarkable journey in the epic film Baijirao Mastani

Introduction

Sanjay Leela Bhansali is renowned for creating cinematic masterpieces that stand the test of time. His films are not just visually stunning; they often feature an exceptional star cast and elaborate costumes that bring historical narratives to life. However, fans are often left pondering certain choices in casting. A pertinent question arose during the promotion of Bhansali’s 2015 blockbuster, Baijirao Mastani, regarding why Priyanka Chopra didn’t portray the role of Mastani, which was played by Deepika Padukone. When this question was posed to Priyanka, her response left everyone astounded.

The Cast and Characters

Released in 2015, Baijirao Mastani starred prominent figures like Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, and Priyanka Chopra. The film depicted the tumultuous love story of Peshwa Bajirao, played by Singh, his first wife Kashi Bai, portrayed by Chopra, and his second wife Mastani, enacted by Padukone. The film was a massive success, and the actors delivered performances that felt crafted specifically for them, resonating with the audience deeply.

Pondering the Role of Mastani

During a recent viral interview clip, a journalist posed the question to Priyanka: “Why didn’t you take on the role of Mastani? Did Sanjay Leela Bhansali offer it to you?” To this, Priyanka humorously replied, “I’ve received so many flowers for my role as Kashi Bai that my home looks like a garden now. Have you seen the film? Why would I want to play Mastani? Didn’t you like Kashi?” Her wit and confidence left the audience in awe, and many fans appreciated her strong connection to the character of Kashi Bai.

Priyanka’s Impact as Kashi Bai

Despite having limited screen time, Priyanka’s portrayal of Kashi Bai was notable and well-received. One of her standout dialogues, “You could have taken my life, and I would have gladly given it, but you have taken my pride instead,” resonated with viewers, showcasing the depth of her character. Since the film’s release, fans continue to celebrate her performance, emphasizing that even the roles with less screen presence can leave a lasting impact.

Challenges Faced During Filming

Transitioning from Bollywood to Hollywood, Priyanka Chopra has established herself as a versatile actress. However, the journey of embodying Kashi Bai was not without its challenges. In an interview, her co-star Ranveer Singh revealed that just three days into the shoot, Priyanka contemplated leaving the project, overwhelmed by Bhansali’s unique directorial style. Her emotional response on set led her to reconsider her commitment to the film.

The Emotional Toll of Kashi Bai

Priyanka described her character as one of the most challenging roles she had taken on at that time. She shared her experience on social media, stating that the demands of the filming process often left her feeling exhausted by the end of each day. “I would realize how tired I was only when I got to bed” she mentioned, underscoring the intensity of the role.

Conclusion

Priyanka Chopra’s journey in Baijirao Mastani is a testament to her dedication as an actress. By embracing the challenging role of Kashi Bai, she not only delivered a memorable performance but also highlighted the complexities of her character’s emotional landscape. As audiences continue to celebrate her work, it is clear that Priyanka’s legacy in the film industry will endure, inspiring future generations of actors to take on challenging roles that resonate with audiences.

Kavita Mishra

Designation: Entertainment Editor Education: B.A. in Film Studies, University of Mumbai Bio: Kavita Mishra brings her love for cinema and pop culture to the forefront as the Entertainment Editor at India Rag. She has over 10 years of experience covering the entertainment industry, including film reviews, celebrity interviews, and event coverage. Kavita’s engaging writing style and industry insights make her content a favorite among readers. Email: [email protected]