Saif refused to play Rishi

Turned down the role of a young Kapoor in Patiala House

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After playing a young Rishi Kapoor in Love Aaj Kal, Saif Ali Khan was in no mood to repeat the act. So when Nikhil Advani offered him the role in Patiala House, the Chhote Nawab turned it down.

After watching Love Aaj Kal, Nikhil had been excited to cast Saif for a friendly appearance as a young Sikh in England, who grows up to be the patriarch played by Rishi Kapoor. Like Love Aaj Kal, Saif would have a turban and would appear in flashback scenes. The similarities were too much for Saif and he was not enthusiastic about doing it. Finally, Nikhil signed on theatre actor Kumid Mishra.

Directed by Nikhil, Patiala House stars Akshay Kumar, Anushka Sharma and Rishi Kapoor. It tells the story of a cricketer who is forced to give up his dream for his father till he meets a girl who gives him the support he needs. Former England cricket captain Nasser Hussain plays Akshay's coach in the film.

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