Here’s a lesser-known Bollywood trivia that still surprises film lovers, Ajay Devgn was originally offered the role of Lieutenant Dharamvir Singh in J.P. Dutta’s iconic war film Border (1997), a character that eventually became one of Akshaye Khanna’s most memorable performances. At the time, Ajay Devgn was already an established star known for his intense screen presence, and Dutta reportedly considered him perfect for the disciplined army officer’s part. However, due to undisclosed reasons, often believed to be scheduling conflicts or creative decisions, the actor could not take up the film.

The role then went to a young Akshaye Khanna, who was still in the early phase of his career. What followed was cinematic destiny at work. Akshaye brought a rare vulnerability and emotional restraint to the character, making Lieutenant Dharamvir Singh stand out in a film filled with powerhouse performances by Sunny Deol, Suniel Shetty, and Jackie Shroff. His portrayal of a soldier battling fear, duty, and sacrifice struck a deep chord with audiences and critics alike.

In retrospect, it’s fascinating to imagine how different Border might have felt with Ajay Devgn in that role. His naturally brooding and rugged style could have given the character a tougher edge, potentially changing the emotional balance of the ensemble. Instead, Akshaye’s softer, more internalised performance added innocence and poignancy, elements that became key to the film’s lasting impact.

This casting twist turned out to be a win-win. Ajay Devgn went on to build an extraordinary career filled with commercial hits and acclaimed performances, while Border became a defining moment for Akshaye Khanna, firmly establishing him as an actor of depth and nuance. A classic case of how one missed opportunity can quietly create space for another iconic journey in Bollywood history.