Saif Ali Khan had ‘last-minute commitment issues’ for Dil Chahta Hai, Aamir Khan stepped in

In 1998, Farhan Akhtar made his directorial debut with the landmark Bollywood film, Dil Chahta Hai, starring Aamir Khan, Saif Ali Khan, and Akshaye Khanna. This coming-of-age comedy-drama showcased the trio's journey through adulthood, relationships, and responsibilities. It became a trendsetter, with both Aamir and Saif's hairdos becoming popular in Bollywood.

As the film celebrated its 25th anniversary, the cast and crew reunited to discuss its creation. Aamir Khan shared that it was when he got his hairdo for the movie that he finally felt like his character, Akash Malhotra. Previously, he had been sporting a puffy hairstyle and copying Amitabh Bachchan's style, with a center parting. However, once his hairstyle was changed, he felt like the character from the very beginning.

Saif Ali Khan also revealed that he had some last-minute commitment issues. He had been offered lead roles in two other films, but when he read the script for Dil Chahta Hai, he felt that the part suited him perfectly. While discussing the situation, Dimple Kapadia reminded Saif that she had specifically urged him not to pass up the movie when he expressed hesitation at the last minute. Aamir Khan added that they all had done the same when Saif was hesitant.