Actor Deepak Tijori, who gained prominence in the 1990s for his memorable supporting roles, recently opened up about how he unexpectedly landed a part in the iconic film ‘Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar’, which starred Aamir Khan. Initially rejected for the role after his audition, Deepak revealed that months later, he was surprised to receive a call to join the film’s set in Ooty. The project had reportedly stalled, and the filmmakers urgently needed someone to step in for Milind Soman, who had originally been cast.
Speaking with Radio Nasha, Deepak reminisced, “The film was almost shut, apparently. Around 75% of it had been done. Jo Jeeta was a movie I really wanted to do, and when I didn’t get it, I was very upset. But I moved on after some time. A few months later, we heard rumours that things had derailed in Ooty, and that actors had walked off the set. One day, Bhatt saab, who was shooting Dil Hai Ke Maanta Nahi in Ooty, called me and said that I must go to the Jo Jeeta set because Aamir Khan and Mansoor Khan had asked for me.”
Despite his initial hesitation, Deepak decided to go to Ooty, primarily because the request came from his mentor, Mahesh Bhatt. Upon arrival, the film’s producer, Nasir Hussain, informed him that they needed him to take over the role of Shekhar. Before accepting, Deepak made sure that Milind Soman was aware of the replacement. “I found out that the film was stalled. It wasn’t moving forward. I got to meet Nasir saab, who said, ‘Beta, aapko yeh karna hai‘, and I said, ‘Sir, aapne bol diya toh baat khatam hogayi‘. Bhatt saab, Aamir, and everyone had asked me to do it, so I was going to do it,” Deepak recounted.
Milind Soman, in a separate interview with journalist Barkha Dutt, explained his departure from the film, citing poor treatment on set as the reason. He recalled being frustrated over not being provided with food on time. “I threw my bicycle down and asked, ‘Where’s my breakfast?’ They didn’t offer me anything. I wasn’t at home; I was relying on the production for food,” Milind said. He emphasized that his happiness and comfort were paramount, and if those weren’t being met, it wasn’t worth continuing.
‘Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar’ is a 1992 Indian sports drama film directed by Mansoor Khan and produced by Nasir Hussain. The movie is set against the backdrop of inter-college sports rivalry in the picturesque town of Dehradun. It tells the story of Sanjaylal Sharma, affectionately known as “Sanju,” played by Aamir Khan, a carefree and mischievous young man from a humble background who eventually finds himself at the heart of a fierce competition.
The film explores themes of friendship, love, jealousy, and determination as Sanju grows from a wayward boy into a focused and determined athlete. The plot revolves around a prestigious inter-college cycle race, which becomes the battleground for personal and familial pride. Sanju’s journey is driven by his desire to win the race, not just for glory, but to restore his family’s honor after his elder brother Ratan, a talented athlete, is humiliated by the wealthier students of the rival Rajput College.
‘Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar’ is celebrated for its engaging storyline, memorable music composed by Jatin-Lalit, and strong performances, particularly by Aamir Khan and supporting actors such as Deepak Tijori, Ayesha Jhulka, and Pooja Bedi. The film has since become a cult classic in Indian cinema, known for its iconic scenes, inspiring message, and the famous song “Pehla Nasha,” which remains a favorite among audiences.
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