As Kunal Kapoor prepares for the release of Jewel Thief—premiering on Netflix on April 25, 2025—he recently took a moment to reflect on one of his most iconic films, Rang De Basanti. During an interview with the YouTube channel Khaane Mein Kya Hai, Kapoor shared an interesting behind-the-scenes moment involving Aamir Khan and the film's powerful climax.
Kapoor, who played Aslam in the 2006 hit alongside Aamir Khan, Siddharth, Sharman Joshi, R. Madhavan, Atul Kulkarni, and Soha Ali Khan, revealed that the emotional radio scene at the film’s end was originally intended to feature the entire group. However, Aamir suggested a major change: only one character should take the lead.
Most assumed that Aamir, being the star, would take center stage. But in a surprising move, he insisted Siddharth be the one to deliver the scene, arguing it would be more impactful.
"Everyone thought it would be Aamir,” Kunal said. “But he asked, 'Who's the smartest, most articulate guy in the group?' and we all knew it was Siddharth. So Aamir said, ‘Let him speak on the radio.’”
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Kunal praised Aamir’s selflessness and vision, recalling him saying, “If every character in the film works, the film works. And if the film works, it’s good for all of us.”
Aamir Khan’s decision is still remembered as a moment of true collaboration in Bollywood, contributing to Rang De Basanti being hailed as one of his most iconic performances to date.