Anil Kapoor Allegedly Played Role in Anupam Kher Losing ‘Mogambo’ Role in ‘Mr. India’

In a surprising revelation, veteran actor Anupam Kher disclosed that he was originally cast as the iconic villain ‘Mogambo’ in the 1987 cult classic Mr. India. Kher reportedly shot several scenes for the role, only to be replaced by Amrish Puri later—a decision in which his friend Anil Kapoor was allegedly involved.

Directed by Shekhar Kapoor and starring Anil Kapoor and Sridevi, Mr. India remains one of Hindi cinema’s most celebrated films, with Amrish Puri’s “Mogambo” still considered legendary. In a video shared by Kher’s stepson Sikandar Kher, Anupam revealed that he had been the final choice for Mogambo, but the filmmakers changed their mind without informing him.

While initially disappointed, Kher admitted that Amrish Puri’s performance was unparalleled, making the casting decision ultimately justified. He acknowledged that Anil Kapoor had supported the filmmakers in this change, a fact that took him by surprise at the time.

The revelation has gone viral on social media, sparking nostalgia among fans and renewed interest in the behind-the-scenes stories of Mr. India.