Controversy Surrounds the Remake of Sridevi’s Iconic Film

The announcement of Janhvi Kapoor replacing Shraddha Kapoor in the highly anticipated remake of the late actress Sridevi’s cult classic Chaalbaaz has stirred mixed reactions and strong opinions among Bollywood fans. Originally, the remake titled Chaalbaaz in London was announced in 2021 with Shraddha Kapoor set to play the iconic dual role. However, due to scheduling conflicts and creative changes, Janhvi Kapoor has emerged as the new contender for the role, sparking a wave of debate and disappointment among loyal fans of the original.

Shraddha Kapoor’s Exit and Janhvi Kapoor’s Entry

In late 2022, reports revealed that Shraddha Kapoor had to step away from the project due to date unavailability following delays and creative adjustments in the script. While Janhvi Kapoor expressed enthusiasm and emotional attachment to the role—given that the original belonged to her mother—several fans remain sceptical about her casting.

Sources suggest Janhvi Kapoor is approaching the role with caution, fully aware of the high expectations and inevitable comparisons to Sridevi’s legendary portrayal. She is reportedly consulting with people around her and is expected to finalise her decision by the end of September 2025.

Fans Voice Strong Opinions: Call for Sanya Malhotra

Social media platforms, especially Reddit and Twitter, have become hotbeds of discussion following announcements of Janhvi’s potential casting. Many users questioned her acting abilities and box office track record. Comments range from concern over her suitability for such a challenging role to outright calls for her to quit acting.

Among the voices of dissent, many fans have urged filmmakers to consider Sanya Malhotra for the lead role instead, believing she possesses the right blend of comic timing, charisma, and acting finesse needed to do justice to a character originally made famous by Sridevi. A number of fans reminisced about the unique charm of Sridevi's performance and stressed that such a role requires an “epic level of fun” and exceptional talent—qualities they feel are missing today.

Director Pankaj Parashar’s Insights on the Project

Chaalbaaz director Pankaj Parashar has addressed the changes in the project candidly. He revealed that the script went through multiple rewrites and that the original plan to recreate Sridevi’s 1989 classic was shelved in favour of a different storyline. Parashar acknowledged advice from filmmaker David Dhawan to reconsider the remake, emphasising that the current script did not reach the desired stage for Shraddha Kapoor to continue.

Importantly, Parashar noted that Shraddha was “very excited” about the project but was understanding of the changes and not upset over her exit. He stressed that the film will still proceed under his direction, but with fresh creative inputs.

The Legacy of Chaalbaaz and Challenges Ahead

Sridevi’s Chaalbaaz remains a beloved film, celebrated for its gripping story of twin sisters, vibrant narrative, and Sridevi's unparalleled comic timing and energy. This legacy sets an exceptionally high bar for the remake.

The film’s success relies heavily on capturing the original’s essence while adapting it for modern audiences—a task that demands a lead actress with both strong acting skills and exceptional screen presence. Whether Janhvi Kapoor or another actress like Sanya Malhotra eventually dons the role, fans await with anticipation and cautious optimism.

Bollywood Awaits the Final Casting Decision

The journey of Chaalbaaz’s remake has been marked by creative shifts, casting upheavals, and passionate fan debates. While Janhvi Kapoor’s connection to the film is deeply personal, fan expectations and comparisons continue to grow louder. As the makers finalise their choice, Bollywood insiders and fans alike await the next chapter in bringing this iconic story back to the big screen.

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