Upasana Singh reveals why she lost 'Maine Pyaar Kiya' role to Bhagyashree

Actor Upasana Singh recently disclosed that she was initially considered for the lead role of Suman in Sooraj Barjatya’s 1989 blockbuster Maine Pyaar Kiya, a film that became a turning point for its stars Salman Khan and Bhagyashree. However, the role eventually went to Bhagyashree, and Singh has now revealed the reason behind her rejection.

In a conversation with Galatta India, Singh shared details of her audition process. At the time, she was studying in Chandigarh and would often visit Mumbai to meet filmmakers, expressing her desire to become an actor. During one such visit, she connected with Gupta Ji, who worked with Sooraj Barjatya, and learned about the project. After a brief audition where she delivered a few dialogues, Barjatya expressed his approval and informed Gupta Ji that Singh was his choice for the role.

Barjatya, however, wanted Singh to meet his father, Raj Kumar Barjatya, before finalizing the decision. Singh returned to Chandigarh after the meeting but never heard back from the filmmakers. Later, when the film was released, she refrained from watching it for a long time, feeling hurt over losing the role. She also chose not to disclose to anyone that she had been initially selected, as she found the situation embarrassing.

Years later, during the shoot of Main Prem Ki Deewani Hoon, Raj Kumar Barjatya revealed in front of the cast and crew that Singh had been the first choice for Maine Pyaar Kiya. This prompted Singh to confront him about why she wasn’t ultimately cast. According to Singh, Barjatya explained that the decision was made because she was taller than Salman Khan. Singh retorted by pointing out that other taller actresses, like Sridevi, had worked successfully with shorter co-stars, but Barjatya dismissed her argument, suggesting that casting her might have led her to leave the industry, as Sridevi had done at one point.

Reflecting on the incident, Singh admitted feeling deeply disappointed at the time. She avoided watching the film initially, fearing she might harbor resentment toward Bhagyashree. However, she later acknowledged that Bhagyashree delivered a commendable performance and deserved the role, though Singh believed she was equally deserving.

Maine Pyaar Kiya went on to become a massive success, cementing Salman Khan and Bhagyashree’s status in Bollywood. The film also featured Reema Lagoo, Alok Nath, and Mohnish Bahl in pivotal roles.