Sooraj Barjatya reveals he never wanted to cast Madhuri Dixit in 'Hum Saath Saath Hain': 'I told her, I am making a male-dominated picture'

Filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya’s Hum Saath Saath Hain, released in 1999, remains a much-loved family drama and a box office hit. Featuring Salman Khan in a key role, the film revolved around the dynamics of a joint family. However, when it came to casting Salman’s on-screen bhabhi (sister-in-law), Sooraj faced challenges in finalising the right actor. Interestingly, Madhuri Dixit, who had collaborated with him in the blockbuster Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! was eager to take on the role, but the director turned her down, citing discomfort in casting her in that part.

In a conversation with Radio Nasha, Sooraj was asked about the casting process and why several female actors, including Madhuri, were considered before the role eventually went to Tabu. He revealed that Madhuri herself reached out to express her willingness to be part of the project. Recalling their conversation, he said, “I told her, ‘Madhuri, I am making a male-dominated picture, and if I cast you opposite Salman, then it is a very small role for you. And if I cast you opposite Mohnish Bahl, then you will be playing bhabhi to Salman Khan.’ She is such a lovely lady. She said, ‘It doesn’t matter, it is a joy to work together.’ But then I said I would not be comfortable.”
One of the primary reasons behind Sooraj’s hesitation was Madhuri’s established on-screen pairing with Salman in 'Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!', where they played a romantic couple. Their chemistry in the film was well received by the audience, making it difficult for him to recast them in different dynamics. He explained that the decision was also influenced by the need to choose an actor without an existing association with Salman. The main concern was that Salman was a star, so Sooraj needed to choose someone who would be convincingly accepted as his bhabhi. They decided on Tabu because she didn’t come with a predefined image. Meanwhile, Sonali Bendre was brought on board as Salman’s love interest.
'Hum Saath Saath Hain' also featured Saif Ali Khan and Karisma Kapoor in key roles.