Subhash Ghai on casting Aneet Padda, Ahaan Panday in Taal 2: 'Wo ab stars ban chuke hain'

Subhash Ghai, Ahaan Panday, Aneet Padda

Subhash Ghai's Taal has become a cult classic that continues to mesmerise audiences across generations. The film is remembered for its unforgettable music, stunning visuals, and iconic moments. In a recent interview, Ghai confirmed that the Taal 2 script is ready; however, he emphasised that maintaining purity is crucial for such a film. He also revealed whether he would cast Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda in the sequel.

Subhash Ghai on Taal 2

In an exclusive chat with HT City, Ghai revealed that the Taal 2 script is almost ready. He added, "I have been facing this question for 15 years - ‘When are you going to make Taal again?' Us Taal ki jo energy hai, it is so powerful that even Gen Z today is asking me to make it again. But the easier the subject of 'Taal' seems, the more difficult it is in reality. Uska poora script hum almost complete kar chuke hain, aur abhi hum soch rahe hain ki yeh sahi samay hai - maybe we should make it. In order to make it, purity is very important."

The filmmaker explained, "If you remember, Akshaye Khanna and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan were new in the industry when Taal was made. Isiliye woh purity screen par aayi. Anil Kapoor was a star, and he was shown as a star in the film as well. After writing a good script, the main responsibility is casting. Jo meri filmein nahi chali hain, uski wajah sirf galat casting thi."

Ghai praised Mohit Suri's Saiyaara and stated how casting newcomers brought innocence and energy to the film. When asked if he would be open to casting the Saiyaara actors in Taal 2, Subhash said, "Ahaan Panday aur Aneet Padda ab star ban chuke hain. Par Taal 2 mein characters naye lagne chahiye. It is the need of the character."

More about Taal

Talking about Taal, the film was released in 1999 and directed by Subhash Ghai. It starred Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Akshaye Khanna, and Anil Kapoor in lead roles.

The movie revolved around a love story between a simple village girl, Mansi, and a young boy from a wealthy business family, Manav, whose relationship is tested by class differences, ambition, and misunderstandings. Anil Kapoor played Vikrant Kapoor, a flamboyant music producer who sees immense potential in Mansi and later falls in love with her. The film's music, composed by AR Rahman, was a major highlight.