Image Source: Screengrab From Instagram Handle
In one of the most unexpected and heartwarming industry stories of the year, filmmaker Farah Khan has revealed the fascinating “full circle” moment behind actor Rajat Bedi’s powerful comeback. It turns out, Bedi’s celebrated new role came about entirely because Shah Rukh Khan’s son, Aryan Khan, has been a massive admirer of his work since childhood—specifically, a memorable line from the cult film Jaani Dushman.
The revelation came during a candid conversation between Farah Khan and Rajat Bedi himself. Farah, known for her close relationship with the Khan family, disclosed that when Aryan was developing his debut web series, The Bads of Bollywood*, he was determined to cast Bedi.
A Fandom Born from a Cult Classic
According to Farah, Aryan Khan grew up as a huge fan of Rajat Bedi, having been particularly struck by his performance in the 2002 multi-starrer Jaani Dushman. It wasn’t just the role, but a specific, memorable dialogue delivered by Bedi in the film that stuck with Aryan throughout his childhood.
This long-standing fandom directly influenced his casting decisions. When the time came to cast his own directorial debut, Aryan reportedly saw Bedi as the perfect fit for a pivotal character, fulfilling a childhood wish to work with an actor he had long admired.
Bedi’s Surprise and Return
Rajat Bedi, who has been largely away from the limelight and was living in Canada for several years, expressed his profound surprise at receiving the call. In the same conversation, Bedi shared his experience of meeting the young filmmaker for the first time, expecting a typical “star kid” interaction.
Instead, Bedi was deeply impressed by Aryan Khan’s humility, professionalism, and clear vision for the project. He noted that Aryan’s down-to-earth nature and respect for his craft were major factors in his decision to return to the screen for this specific role, marking a significant comeback to the Indian entertainment industry.
A Critically Acclaimed Comeback
The role Aryan Khan cast him for was no small cameo. Rajat Bedi plays Jaraj Saxena, a complex, layered, and intense character in The Bads of Bollywood*.
The series itself has been met with critical acclaim since its release, and Bedi’s powerful performance is being universally celebrated as a major highlight. Critics and audiences alike have praised his portrayal, marking a stunning return to form.
This revelation provides a fascinating insight into the casting of the series, proving that sometimes a memorable line in a cult film can echo for decades, eventually leading to one of the year’s most talked-about comebacks. It’s a testament to the unexpected ways nostalgia can shape new-age creativity and a nod to the humility of a new generation of filmmakers.
