Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar has a long-standing connection with the UAE, frequently shooting films in the region and maintaining strong ties with the country’s film industry. However, one of his successful movies, which was extensively filmed in the UAE, was initially offered to the late, legendary actor Irrfan Khan. Though many might speculate that the film in question is either Baby or Naam Shabana, it is neither. The film that Irrfan Khan passed on, eventually becoming a blockbuster with Akshay Kumar in the lead, is none other than Airlift.
The Story Behind the Casting Decision
Released in 2016, Airlift is a gripping war drama based on real-life events. It revolves around the heroic rescue of 170,000 stranded Indians during the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in 1990. The film portrays the immense struggle of Indian expatriates and the remarkable efforts made to evacuate them, led by Ranjit Katyal, played by Akshay Kumar.
Before Akshay Kumar came on board, the makers of Airlift had reportedly approached Irrfan Khan for the role of Ranjit Katyal. Given his impeccable acting skills and ability to portray intense, layered characters, Irrfan seemed like an ideal choice. However, due to scheduling conflicts and personal reasons, he declined the offer. This paved the way for Akshay Kumar, who ultimately delivered a power-packed performance that won audiences over.
Why Airlift Stands Out
Airlift was a game-changer in Akshay Kumar’s career, establishing him as a credible performer beyond his action and comedy roles. The film beautifully blended realism with drama, earning critical acclaim and commercial success. Directed by Raja Krishna Menon, Airlift became one of the highest-grossing films of 2016 and remains one of Akshay Kumar’s most praised performances.
The film’s success was largely attributed to its gripping narrative, compelling performances, and grand execution. Akshay Kumar’s portrayal of a businessman-turned-hero was both subtle and impactful, making it one of his most significant films to date.
UAE as a Filming Destination
A substantial part of Airlift was shot in the UAE, specifically in Ras Al Khaimah and other locations that doubled for war-torn Kuwait. The UAE provided the perfect backdrop for the movie’s intense war sequences, desert landscapes, and Middle Eastern architecture. With its state-of-the-art infrastructure and supportive film production environment, the UAE has become a preferred destination for many Bollywood projects.
The production team utilized various locations across the country to recreate the tension and chaos of the Iraqi invasion. The authenticity in the cinematography, combined with Akshay Kumar’s compelling performance, helped make the film a gripping cinematic experience.
What If Irrfan Khan Had Accepted the Role?
Irrfan Khan was known for his ability to transform any character he portrayed into something extraordinary. Had he accepted the role of Ranjit Katyal, Airlift would have had a very different tone and execution. His nuanced approach to acting could have brought another level of depth to the character. However, Akshay Kumar’s performance was widely appreciated, and his dedication to the role ensured that the film resonated deeply with audiences.
Akshay Kumar’s UAE Connection
Akshay Kumar has shot several films in the UAE, reinforcing his strong association with the region. Films like Baby, Naam Shabana, and Laxmii were also filmed in different emirates. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah have often served as exotic and action-packed locations for Bollywood productions, with Airlift being one of the standout films that successfully used the UAE’s cinematic potential.
The film not only showcased Akshay Kumar’s versatility but also highlighted the importance of the UAE as a crucial partner in Bollywood’s international expansion. The collaboration between Bollywood filmmakers and UAE-based production teams continues to grow, with more films choosing the region for its picturesque locations and production-friendly policies.
Conclusion
While Irrfan Khan’s decision to decline Airlift may have disappointed some fans, it ultimately opened the door for Akshay Kumar to deliver one of his career-best performances. The film’s UAE backdrop, combined with its real-life inspiration, made it a cinematic triumph. With Airlift, Akshay Kumar proved his mettle in intense drama, further solidifying his reputation as one of Bollywood’s most bankable stars.
Even today, Airlift stands as a testament to the courage and resilience of the human spirit, beautifully captured against the stunning backdrop of the UAE. And as Bollywood continues its love affair with the region, fans can expect more gripping stories to unfold on the silver screen, showcasing the UAE’s cinematic brilliance.
Do follow Uae stories for more Updates
