Did Thiagarajan Force Shankar To Drop Ajith To Cast Prashanth In 'Jeans' Opposite Aishwarya Rai?

In the past, there have been reports about actor Ajith Kumar was being approached by Shankar for his blockbuster 'Jeans' which had Aishwarya Rai Bachchan playing the female lead. However, now a journalist has said that though Ajith was the first choice, he was never approached as actor-filmmaker Thiagarajan forced Prashanth to cast him.

In an interview with a YouTube channel, Dindigul Venkatesh recounted his discussions with Shankar about "Jeans." He said, "Shankar sir told me, 'I have a fixed idea about a different hero.' When I asked who, he mentioned Ajith, noting that Ajith fit the role and could handle dual parts. I then questioned why not Prashanth."

Shankar responded that Prashanth appeared 'a little dull' for the role. Venkatesh pointed out that Thiagarajan was eager for Prashanth's comeback and was pressuring Shankar to consider him. Despite this, Shankar insisted he did not have Prashanth in mind and requested Venkatesh to convey that he had a different hero in mind.

Thiagarajan persisted, leading Venkatesh to inform Shankar about the pressure and Prashanth's willingness to work for free. Shankar, who had previously lost a film over a similar offer, found the situation ironic but ultimately chose to proceed with Prashanth. As a result, Ajith was never approached for the film.

Prashanth, who is set to release his next movie, 'Andhagan,' on August 9, was one of the most sought-after heroes of the 90s. 'Jeans' was the highest-budget film of its time and became a major box office hit upon its release.

The movie remains a feather in Prashanth's cap.