Parmeet Sethi, known for his role as Kuljeet in the iconic film Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ), recently shared an interesting tidbit about his son, Ayushmaan. According to Sethi, Ayushmaan was in consideration for the role of Kuljeet in the DDLJ Broadway musical.
In a recent interview, Sethi revealed that Ayushmaan auditioned for the part and came close to securing it. "He almost got it," Sethi stated, highlighting the competitive nature of the casting process for such a high-profile production. While it's unclear why Ayushmaan wasn't ultimately selected, Sethi's comments suggest that his son made a strong impression during the audition.
Parmeet Sethi's portrayal of Kuljeet Singh in DDLJ remains one of his most recognizable roles. In the film, Kuljeet is the fiancé of Simran, played by Kajol, and embodies a traditional, somewhat arrogant Punjabi persona. Sethi's performance brought depth to the character, making him both a charming and, at times, frustrating figure.
The DDLJ Broadway musical is a stage adaptation of the classic Bollywood film, aiming to bring the beloved story to a new audience. The musical features a new cast, and the role of Kuljeet is crucial to the narrative, representing the cultural expectations and familial pressures that Simran faces.
Sethi's journey to landing the role of Kuljeet in the original film was not without its challenges. He had to persuade Aditya Chopra, the director, to give him a screen test. Initially, Chopra felt Sethi's persona was too positive for the character. However, Sethi's persistence and his wife Archana Puran Singh's help in adding Punjabi essence to the character eventually won Chopra over.
"I asked him to give me a screen test once," Sethi recalled. "He smiled and called me to his office again. He gave me four main scenes of the film. I had so much guts, I changed the lines a bit to give it more of a Punjabi essence. Archana also contributed and helped me with a few phrases… After a long pause, he said, 'You are my Kuljeet.' I jumped and hugged him".
DDLJ was Sethi's Bollywood debut and played a significant role in shaping his career. After DDLJ, Sethi received offers for villainous and negative roles, but he rejected many of them. Reflecting on this decision, Sethi acknowledged that being too selective might have cost him opportunities.
Beyond acting, Sethi has also directed films and television shows. He directed Badmaash Company in 2010 and has been involved in various television projects. His multifaceted career showcases his talent and adaptability in the entertainment industry.
The legacy of DDLJ endures, with audiences continuing to cherish the film's story, music, and characters. The Broadway musical adaptation is a testament to the film's lasting impact and its ability to resonate with new generations. While Ayushmaan Sethi may not have secured the role of Kuljeet in the musical, his consideration highlights the enduring connection between the Sethi family and this iconic character.
