New Delhi: Bollywood actress Parineeti Chopra, known for her versatile roles, has made headlines once again, this time for a decision that left fans surprised. As she celebrates her 36th birthday today (October 22), we take a look at the time the actress turned down the lead role in Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s blockbuster Animal. Despite the success of the film, she chose Imtiaz Ali’s Amar Singh Chamkila instead—a decision she stands by.
When Parineeti Chopra rejected Animal…
Parineeti, who made her debut in Ladies vs Ricky Bahl and shot to fame with Ishaqzaade, is no stranger to making bold choices. When offered the female lead in Animal, she opted for Chamkila instead.
Speaking to India Today, Parineeti explained, “These things happen, it’s part of life. We make such choices every day. You make the choice that is right for you.” The role she turned down eventually went to Rashmika Mandanna, whose performance in the film received mixed reviews.
Director Sandeep Reddy Vanga apologises
While Animal was a massive success, grossing over Rs 800 crore at the box office, director Sandeep Reddy Vanga admitted that Parineeti wasn’t right for the role of Geetanjali. In an interview with Komal Nahta, Vanga expressed regret over the situation, saying, “Galti mera hai (It’s my fault). I asked her to forgive me if possible.” He revealed that he had long admired Parineeti’s acting skills and had even considered casting her in Kabir Singh, but things didn’t fall into place.
Despite the apology, the actress seems to have no regrets. Her performance in Chamkila has been praised by critics, and the film is seen as a defining moment in her career. Parineeti chose what she felt was the best project for her at the time, and it has certainly paid off.
Animal: A blockbuster hit
Despite the casting shuffle, Animal became one of 2023’s biggest box office successes. Starring Ranbir Kapoor as the complex character Ranvijay Singh, the film was a commercial hit, even amid criticism for its portrayal of women.
Ranbir’s performance won him the Best Actor (Male) award at the 69th Filmfare Awards, and fans are already excited about the teased sequel, Animal Park, which was hinted at in the post-credits scene.
