Learn about how Shah Rukh Khan helped launch Preity Zinta’s acting career with her debut film Dil Se.
Preity Zinta is more than just a pretty face, with her dimpled cheeks and magical eyes. She is a talented and acclaimed actress who showcased her skills in her debut movie Dil Se. Despite it being a supporting role, she received high praise for her performance in the romantic thriller film.
Before starring in Shah Rukh Khan and Manisha Koirala’s movie, Preity Zinta had already filmed for Soldier and Kya Kehna. Find out why Mani Ratnam’s directorial movie became her first film.
Ramesh Taurani reveals how Dil Se became Preity Zinta’s debut film
In 1998, Preity Zinta’s first lead role was in the movie Soldier. However, before the Abbas–Mustan film could be released, Shah Rukh Khan stepped in and Dil Se became her debut feature. Producer Ramesh Taurani revealed in an interview with News18 Showsha that they initially signed Zinta for Kya Kehna, but the film was released later in 2000.
During the making of Kya Kehna, Zinta was cast in Soldier alongside Bobby Deol. Taurani mentioned that they had an agreement with Zinta that their film would be released first. Despite receiving an offer for Dil Se around the same time, they allowed her to take on the small part in the film while upholding their contract.
As fate would have it, Dil Se was completed on time while Soldier was also ready for release. However, Soldier’s release was delayed due to the music release of Bobby’s film Qareeb in June. With all the delays, Shah Rukh Khan and Mani Ratnam approached Taurani to release Dil Se before Soldier. Taurani agreed, leading to Dil Se releasing before Soldier and Kya Kehna.
Soldier 2 filming to commence in 2025
During the same conversation, Ramesh Taurani discussed the sequel to Soldier. He expressed optimism about filming for the sequel starting next year, although he did not confirm Bobby Deol and Preity Zinta’s involvement. According to Taurani, the decision on the cast would depend on how the story unfolds.
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