In a recent conversation with Siddharth Kannan, acclaimed filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma lifted the curtain on an untold chapter of Bollywood history. During the early development of his 2002 gangster masterpiece Company, Varma initially envisioned Shah Rukh Khan as Malik — the character that ultimately became one of Ajay Devgn’s most memorable performances.
Speaking candidly, Varma recalled, “Initially, I thought of Shah Rukh for Malik. He was fascinated as I narrated the story, but something didn’t quite align. Shah Rukh’s energy — electric and dynamic — didn’t fit Malik’s composed, calculating personality. Casting him would be like asking a lion to play a house cat.”
Varma went on to explain the contrasting artistic temperaments of the two stars. “Shah Rukh is a performer in motion, always radiating charisma. Ajay, however, carries an inner calm — the quiet intensity Malik needed. Once I realized that, the decision was instant. I left Shah Rukh’s place, called Ajay, and finalized it right away.”
Company went on to redefine the gangster genre in Indian cinema. Made on a modest budget of ₹9.5 crore, it grossed over ₹25 crore, cementing its place as a critical and commercial triumph. The film also introduced Mohanlal to Hindi cinema and featured Vivek Oberoi in a breakthrough role after Abhishek Bachchan stepped away due to scheduling conflicts.
Now, Ram Gopal Varma is back to stirring excitement with his upcoming project, Police Station Mein Bhoot, starring Manoj Bajpayee. The film blends horror and comedy, following a group of policemen who become the hunted after a terrifying supernatural encounter. “When fear strikes the police, who do they call? What happens when a haunted police station turns their courage into chaos?” teased Varma.
While details about the cast and release date remain under wraps, fans are eagerly awaiting the filmmaker’s return to his signature blend of suspense, grit, and dark humor.
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