Farah Khan 'launched' Deepika Padukone in 'Om Shanti Om' because of Shah Rukh Khan

Farah Khan, renowned Bollywood filmmaker credited Shah Rukh Khan for bringing Deepika Padukone on board for the film Om Shanti Om.

During a recent interview with Mashable India, the 50-year-old director said that casting a newcomer opposite Shah Rukh was made possible because of him.

She revealed, “Every director has their own choice, then one wonders why did that person select them but in the picture it all works out you can get a break any time, but are you prepared for that break or not? I feel everyone says you wait for the right role."

"I feel those days are gone. You have to keep acting. You take whatever you get, be it small or big. No one is going to give you a launch unless you are a big star's son. Sorry to say, but that is the truth I launched her [Deepika Padukone] because of Shah Rukh Khan. He was there. So, I could take that risk,” Farah added.

The Main Hoon Na director also shared that she's learned how to manage a large set with many actors.

Farah further explained, “I was so scared earlier that to hide it, I used to shout at everyone. Otherwise, I am the nicest person on set. But now, everyone takes it as a joke, and they are all laughing."

After On Shamti Om, Farah Khan worked again with Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone in two film, Happy New Year, released in 2014 and Pathaan, released in 2023.