EXCLUSIVE: Sooraj Barjatya REVEALS why he NEVER re-cast Salman Khan & Madhuri Dixit after HAHK; says, “Kai baar aise hota reheta hai ki…”

Sooraj Barjatya, known for his heartwarming family dramas, directed Hum Saath-Saath Hain (1999), a film that beautifully encapsulates Indian family values and traditions. Produced under Rajshri Productions, the movie features an ensemble cast, including Salman Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Karisma Kapoor, and Sonali Bendre. The film revolves around the bond between siblings and the importance of unity in a joint family. With its soulful music, grand celebrations, and emotional depth, Hum Saath-Saath Hain remains one of Bollywood’s most cherished family entertainers.

Sooraj Barjatya on Salman Khan & Madhuri Dixit

In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Bubble, Sooraj Barjatya when asked about Hum Saath Saath Hai, “Kai baar aise hote reheta hai ki hum chaha rahe hai ki aaye but nahi ho pata jaise, Madhuri Ji bohot keen thi Hum Saath Saath Hai me ki, ‘we should work together.’ ” (Many times, it happens that we want something to happen, but it doesn’t work out. For example, Madhuri Ji was very keen to be a part of Hum Saath-Saath Hain and said, ‘We should work together.’)

He continued on the same. He said, “I was also very keen but, koi role nahi tha unke liye kyuki mai unhe Salman ki bhabhi nahi bana sakta tha aur Salman bhai ke opposite joh role tha woh bohot hi saral tha bohot hi shaant tha and, Hum Aapke Hai Kaun was right there on top toh she also understood that it has to suit everyone.” (I was also very keen, but there was no role for her because I couldn’t cast her as Salman’s bhabhi. The role opposite Salman was very simple and quiet, and with Hum Aapke Hain Koun still at the top, she also understood that it had to suit everyone.)

About the film

Hum Saath-Saath Hain (1999) is a Bollywood family drama directed by Sooraj Barjatya and produced by Rajshri Productions. The film revolves around the lives of a happy, joint family and highlights the importance of familial love, togetherness, and values. The story follows the Saif Ali Khan, Salman Khan, Karisma Kapoor, and Sonali Bendre characters, who face various challenges but remain united in their love for each other. The film touches upon themes of sibling bonds, parental love, and the significance of standing by each other through tough times.

With a stellar cast including Anupam Kher, Reema Lagoo, and Mohnish Bahl, Hum Saath-Saath Hain was praised for its wholesome portrayal of family relationships and became a massive box office success. The film’s melodious songs and vibrant visuals, paired with Sooraj Barjatya’s signature storytelling, made it one of the most iconic family entertainers in Bollywood.

Watch the interview here:

Interview transcribed & written by Harsh Nargolkar

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