Aamir Khan has recently revealed that he rejected the lead role in Ashutosh Gowariker's critically acclaimed film Swades because he found the narration "boring." This revelation has stirred considerable discussion among fans and industry insiders, given the film's eventual success and Shah Rukh Khan's widely praised performance in the role.

In a recent interview with Zoom, Aamir Khan discussed the circumstances surrounding his decision to turn down the film. He explained that Gowariker had initially narrated the story to him while they were working together on Lagaan. Aamir liked the initial concept and was keen to collaborate after Lagaan's release. Aamir Khan Productions (AKP) was even set to produce Swades. However, after Lagaan was released, Gowariker provided a full, three-hour narration of the script. It was at this point that Aamir decided the film wasn't for him. According to Aamir, the extended narration failed to hold his interest, and he found the story "too boring." He admitted that he hasn't seen the film yet.

Interestingly, Aamir also shared that the film was initially titled Kaveri Amma, named after a key character in the movie. The role that was offered to Aamir Khan eventually went to Shah Rukh Khan, who embraced the project. Swades was released in 2004 and, despite being a box office failure initially, has since garnered significant critical acclaim and is now considered a cult classic, with many regarding it as one of Shah Rukh Khan's finest performances.

Swades tells the story of Mohan Bhargava (played by Shah Rukh Khan), an Indian scientist working for NASA who returns to his homeland and rediscovers his roots while striving to improve the lives of the villagers. The film is inspired by the real-life story of an Indian couple who developed a pedal-powered generator to bring electricity to remote village schools.

While Aamir Khan passed on Swades, he has a history of making unconventional choices. He suggested Salman Khan for Bajrangi Bhaijaan because he felt that Salman was a better fit for the role. Aamir has also revealed that he was dropped from Darr after asking for a joint narration. He has also said no to Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and Hum Aapke Hain Koun.

Aamir Khan is gearing up for the release of Sitaare Zameen Par on June 20, 2025, and has clarified that he is not retiring after Mahabharat. He stated that his earlier statement was misconstrued.