Not Preity Zinta but these actor-sisters were producer's first choice for Bobby Deol starrer Soldier

Bobby Deol and Preity Zinta starrer Soldier (1998) became a blockbuster hit at the box office, becoming the 2nd highest-grossing film of the year in India after Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. However, not many know that instead of Preity, the producer Ramesh Taurani's first choice were the Kapoor sisters - Karisma and Kareena.

Ramesh Taurani reveals his first choice for Soldier

In a recent interview with Bollywood Hungama, the producer opened up about his initial leading lady of the film. He revealed about approaching Babita Kapoor, expressing his wish to sign Kareena, then 16-year-old, for the film. However, she refused the offer, stating, "Kareena bahut chhoti hai (Kareena is too young).” He tried to persuade the veteran actress stating that it was a huge project with big names associated with it. However, she remained firm in her decision and wished for Kareena to first complete her education, before venturing into films.

When Babita did not agree to Kareena, Turani suggested Karisma Kapoor, but owing to fee issues, he was unable to cast her.

How Preity Zinta came on board for Soldier?

In the same interview, Turani recalled Bobby suggesting to have Preity in the film. However, Turani was sceptical about casting two newcomers in a film. Thus the director Abbas-Mustan decided to meet Preity once which went well. After the meeting, the director duo told Turani, "Issi ladki ko film mein lete hai (Let’s have this girl on board for the film)."

Turani also issued the clarification regarding Dharmendra wanting to see Sunny Deol as the lead in Soldier. Calling it false, he said, "Dharam ji was very happy that Tips and Abbas-Mustan were making a film with Bobby.”

What you should know about Soldier

The action-thriller drama also starrer Raakhee Gulzar. The film marked the acting debut of Preity Zinta as it released before  Mani Ratnam's Dil Se...(1998). According to film writer Shyam Goel, it was inspired by a real incident that happened in Punjab where a woman's forehead was branded with the message that her husband was a traitor.