Vikas Sethi’s role as Robbie in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (K3G) might seem small, but it certainly became memorable for fans of the film. However, that role could have belonged to John Abraham, who was initially offered the part by director Karan Johar. This revelation came straight from John himself during his appearance on Karan’s famous talk show Koffee with Karan. In one of the early seasons, John discussed how Karan approached him with the role, convinced it was perfect for him. But John had different ideas about his career path and decided to pass on it. Eventually, the role went to Vikas Sethi.
The story behind this casting choice sheds light on how unpredictable Bollywood can be. Karan Johar, in those days, saw John as someone more suited to modeling and the fashion world than as a serious actor for the big screen. He admitted he thought John would be great on the ramp but wasn’t convinced about his on-screen potential at the time. The director’s perspective highlights how, in the early 2000s, John was still in the early stages of transitioning from a successful modeling career to acting. Karan Johar’s initial reservations about John’s abilities as an actor came from the filmmaker’s understanding of the industry’s expectations back then, which revolved heavily around on-screen charisma and presence.John, who had yet to establish his now-flourishing Bollywood career, politely declined the offer, seeing himself taking on different roles. For him, playing a small role in a big-budget family drama wasn’t the right move. In hindsight, this was likely the right decision, as his career went in a very different direction, eventually marking him as a strong action star and a serious actor capable of intense performances. John’s instincts served him well, though he later acknowledged that it was still flattering to have been considered by Karan Johar for the part.On the other hand, for Vikas Sethi, the role of Robbie opened a small but significant door. Although it was only a cameo, Vikas managed to make an impression. The part may not have changed the course of his career, but it’s a piece of Bollywood history that added to his portfolio. After the film, Vikas went on to enjoy success in the television world, starring in household-name shows like Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi and Kahiin To Hoga. His TV career made him a recognizable face in Indian homes, and while his big-screen presence may have been brief, his contribution to Bollywood films is remembered by fans.The passing of Vikas Sethi earlier this week brought this story back into the limelight. The actor passed away at 48 after suffering a cardiac arrest in his sleep. His untimely death shocked many in the entertainment industry, with colleagues and friends paying tribute to him. Even though his career didn’t boast numerous films, Vikas Sethi’s role in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham stands out as a small but memorable part of a larger cinematic tapestry. Karan Johar’s choice to cast him after John Abraham’s polite refusal ended up being a fortunate twist of fate for Vikas.
The industry, in general, is filled with such stories—of roles being passed on, actors finding their footing, and unexpected casting decisions that lead to memorable performances. In this case, John Abraham, who now has a successful filmography, and Vikas Sethi, who left his mark through television and a handful of films, both played roles that shaped the trajectory of their careers.
While Vikas Sethi’s contribution to Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham may have been brief, it remains part of Bollywood lore, and his death is a reminder of how fleeting life can be. Fans of his work are left to reflect on his career and the lasting impact he made on the shows and films he was part of.