Sharmila Tagore opens up about cancer diagnosis, opting out of Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani

Sharmila Tagore appeared in the latest episode of a popular chat show along with her son Saif Ali Khan. While in conversation, the veteran actres opened up about her cancer diagnosis. This is the first time the actress has spoken about her medical setback. 

Sharmila Tagore was the original choice for Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani 

During the episode of the chat show, it was revealed that Sharmila was offered a supporting role in the Alia Bhatt-Ranveer Singh starrer Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. The show host revealed that he earlier offered the role to Sharmila but it was eventually essayed by Shabana Azmi. Sharmila said that she was concerned about her health at the time. The host said that he regrets not being able to work with her on the film.

In the movie, Shabana plays the grandmother of Alia Bhatt’s titular character. The host said: “I’d offered Sharmila ji the part played by Shabana ji, she was my very first choice. But because of health reasons at that time, she couldn’t say yes. It is a regret I have.” Sharmila explained: “It was at the height of Covid-19. They hadn’t really grappled with COVID-19 at that time, we were not vaccinated. After my cancer, they didn’t want me to take that risk.” The host concluded: “It will be a regret, and it is something I hope that we can make up for and work together.”

Sharmila Tagore reveals Saif Ali Khan caused anxiety as a child 

In the same conversation, Sharmila Tagore also shared funny anecdotes from the Hum Tum actor’s childhood. Narrating the story, Sharmila said: "I wouldn't say he was a brat but he would cause anxiety all around. You never knew what he was up to. Breaking the glass happened accidentally because they were playing." 

"So, there was this glass door, I was on the other side of the corridor and he came through, I could see the glass shards falling around him. And I knew I couldn't get there on time to see and do anything heroic. And it was just falling and missing him," added the Mausam actress. The Dil Chahta Hai actor laughingly added: "It was like Amar Chitra Katha, gifted kids, glass everywhere unscathed." 

(With inputs from IANS)