‘Aamir Khan hated Josh': Mansoor Khan reflects on 25 years of Shah Rukh Khan-Aishwarya Rai-starrer, says film left him ‘disillusioned'

Steven Spielberg's recent rendition of the timeless West Side Story invited comparisons that inevitably fall short when held against Mansoor Khan's Josh, a film that transcends its musical roots to deliver a far more exciting exploration of gang rivalries and the torments of forbidden love. Josh recently completed 25 years, and after much pursuit and patient waiting, I finally had the chance to speak with Mansoor Khan about the Shah Rukh Khan-Aishwarya Rai-starrer. In an exclusive conversation with SCREEN, he reflected not only on the creative journey behind Josh, but also on his seminal coming-of-age classic Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, his evolving relationship with his cousin Aamir Khan, insights into Junaid Khan's craft, and the possibility of a long-anticipated return to filmmaking.
What I find fascinating about Josh is that, unlike its source material, it's not a romantic tragedy. It has this almost rebellious energy and a very positive outlook on love and life. Was that a conscious choice, especially considering you had already explored a tragic love story with Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak?
So basically, see, I've always wanted to make a spirited musical with Josh. Every now and then, I think, 'Okay, this one is going to be a musical.' By musical, I don't mean in the literal sense of just having songs in the film. I mean a true musical, like Fiddler on the Roof, where the scenes themselves become musical, you know?
Take me back to the beginning, when did the idea of adapting West Side Story strike you? Was it the popularity of the original that drew you in, or was it more about giving your own spin to a timeless classic and making it resonate with Indian audiences?
I really liked the premise of West Side Story. It is basically Romeo and Juliet in a different form. Instead of parents and families, it's two brothers. So at its core, that's the premise. But when I saw the film, I was very disappointed. I thought the first half was okay, very stylish and all. It had that stage musical feel. But I lost interest in the film after the brother dies, which happens midway through. I honestly don't even remember the rest of it. Still, that premise stuck with me, brothers opposing the love of their siblings. I wanted to take that idea somewhere else, though. The Indian audience needs a little more than just that. And I didn't want to focus only on resolving the love angle, you know? And I've always been fascinated by Goa and its history, especially Portuguese history, which a lot of people don't know about. My wife is Goan, and I found that part of the history really intriguing.
You co-wrote some truly iconic dialogues for Josh with the late Neeraj Vora. What was that process like?
Neeraj was a storehouse of talent, and he was a very, very amusing and funny guy. He could be quite distracting, actually, because every time we sat down, and we had dozens of sittings, he'd come up with a new idea. Especially for the introduction, for a few weeks, he kept throwing in fresh thoughts that would totally throw us off. We'd be like, 'Wow, that's a great idea. Come on, we've written it now, we're going with this.' And then the next day, Neeraj would come in and say, 'You know, actually, I was thinking… if we do it like this, that could work too.' And we'd be like, 'Yeah, let's do it that way.' But, you know, I don't get distracted easily. So sometimes I did have to put a stop to it. But he had such a fertile mind, it was great fun to work with him. He didn't take things too seriously, and his sense of humour was wicked. You can see that, especially in Josh, but also in the kind of comedy he brought in. All those funny lines, even that bit about the bakery turning into a rat house, that's all him.
There are so many wild casting stories around Josh! Is it true that you originally wanted Aamir and Shah Rukh together in the film?
So after Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, I was looking for a script. And it was then I wrote a lot of Josh, and I had both Aamir and Shah Rukh in mind, Aamir for the romantic part, opposite whoever the actress would be, and Shah Rukh as Max. But when I narrated it to Aamir, I didn't tell him who was supposed to play which role. So he started imagining that he'd be playing Max. I thought, 'Oh no, now what do I do?' In my head, I was like, okay, don't jump the gun. Let me go see what Shah Rukh says first. Not that I ever intended to give Max's role to Aamir, honestly, I just wanted to see how the cards would fall.
So I went to meet Shah Rukh and narrated the script to him. He really liked it. And by the end of the narration, he'd already started talking about the scenes, because his mind is very active. He was like, 'Yeah, in that scene, Max can do this, and in that one, Max can do that.' And I thought, 'Oh God, this guy also wants the same role' But anyway, I did want him for Max. So I asked, 'Shah Rukh, are you doing the film?' And he said, 'No, because I know Aamir will get Max's role.' At that point, I didn't really know how to respond. So I just left it there. I didn't say anything.
But later on, Aamir himself said, 'No, no, I don't want to play this role.' He'd already done a lot of soft-boy, lover-boy parts. And he'd also done that tapori role in Rangeela, so he wanted to change his image. So he said no on his own. Anyway, in my mind, even to this day, there's only one Max, and that's Shah Rukh. He's got that panache, the humour, and that underlying threat needed for the role. He is a charismatic guy.
Did Aamir ever see Josh? What was his reaction to it?
He saw it at that time and said he hated it. So I said, okay, fine. I was pretty disillusioned after that too. I didn't watch it again for 15, maybe 17 years. I finally saw it about eight years ago, and honestly, I feel it's not a bad film. I told Aamir, 'You should see it now.' I said, 'See, back then, the wounds were still fresh.'
Also Read | When Mansoor Khan asked Priya Gill to hit Shah Rukh Khan 'with force': 'It was most embarrassing part of my career, entire set was silent'
How was it working with Anu Malik on the music of Josh?
So my first choice was actually AR Rahman. I went and met him, but I suddenly realised, Rahman is excellent, no doubt, but his work style is very different, and he's quite elusive. I'm used to sitting with music directors and really being involved, because I play music myself. I record, I compose my own songs. In fact, that's a big part of my life now, which I had ignored for a long time. The thing is, I like to interact closely, right from selecting the tune, obviously, but even down to the instrumentation and arrangement. I want a certain sound. I want a specific drum sound, a certain electric guitar tone. I don't want screeching violins. They can definitely be used, but in the right way, not the overused, clichéd way they often are.
And I knew that kind of hands-on process wouldn't happen with Rahman. So when I came back from Chennai, I called him and said, 'I'm sorry, Rahman, this is not working out.' He was very gracious and understanding. Now, Anu, since I had worked with him on Akele Hum Akele Tum, he was already pitching for this film. He knew I was about to start something new, and he was hoping I'd take him again. I had actually told him, 'No, Anu, this time I'm going to work with Rahman.' But when that didn't work out, I came back and called him, and he was thrilled. And honestly, Anu is really one of a kind. He's full of tunes, he's a melody guy.
Whose idea was it to have Shah Rukh sing 'Apun Bola'?
I'm so glad you brought this up. So, I had actually heard 'Aati Kya Khandala' way before anyone else had—way before any of the guys had heard it. But it just didn't fit into my film. I realised that Aati Kya Khandala, from a musical standpoint too, and also in terms of tone, just didn't belong. I really liked the song, it was exciting, but I don't like forcing things into a film when they don't naturally fit where I want them to go. Actually, maybe it's a good thing they took it, because they kept the original lyrics, which were perfect for what it was. If I had taken the tune, I might have taken the lyrics somewhere else, and maybe it would have worked, maybe not. So, coming to your question, I think, yeah, maybe I did get inspired because Aamir had sung Khandala. That's when I thought, 'Hey, let Shah Rukh sing, it should feel more like him.' Because that's really his only song in the film. I mean, not the only song, but the one that really needs to reflect his character. Like 'Sailaru Sailare', that one, honestly, anyone else could've sung it too. In fact, someone else might've done it even better.
Were you disappointed with the way the film performed at the box office?
The first thing is, reception never really affects me. When I finish a film, for me, it's all about whether I feel I've done a good job. Whether I've stayed true to the premise and rendered it the way I visualised it. And if I've done that, then I feel it's not bad. Of course, what's considered good or bad also depends on audience taste. But I go by my own judgment. So I never felt like, even when Aamir told me he didn't like Josh, that didn't affect me.
Because, I don't know, I just felt that there's something about Akele Hum Akele Tum, Josh, and even Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, my films tend to take time for the audience to really get into them. Like, if you go on YouTube, I used to read comments there, when Akele Hum had just released, the internet was just starting to become a thing. And maybe 10 years after its release, I'd start seeing reviews that were like, 'Oh okay, decent film, nice story, this and that…' But if you read the comments now, of all my films, Akele Hum actually has the most engagement. On one particular channel alone, it's got nearly 70 million views. And it's not just about the number of views, people might watch and move on. But the comments, they're like, 'Oh my God, I cried my heart out,' 'What a film,' you know? Times have changed. So the taste and preferences also evolve.
Finally, we've heard whispers that you may be returning to filmmaking after all these years. Is that true? Can you tell us anything about what you're working on?
See, let me tell you that I have written two books. The first one is non-fiction, called, The Third Curve, and it's about the concept of perpetual economic growth. It questions whether such growth is truly possible or sustainable, and explores how we've built an entire global belief system around the idea of endless growth, treating it almost like a religion. It critically examines how symbolic financial instruments like hedge funds and stock markets contribute to an illusion of growth, disconnected from real productivity.
The second book is fiction, titled, One: The Story of the Ultimate Myth. It deals with deep ecological and cultural themes. It argues that it's not all of humanity, but specifically the culture of civilization that is responsible for the destruction of the planet, through its values of expansion, dominance, and consumption. The book explores how civilisation behaves like a virus, converting or wiping out other cultures, and how our understanding of 'progress' and 'advanced' cultures is flawed. And I'm in the process of adapting this book for the screen and hoping to collaborate with Aamir on it.

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Learn with AIFact CheckingText to SpeechAI Summary

Related Articles

The Wire

25 minutes ago

• The Wire

American Tourister x LoveChild Masaba Launch the Urban Collection: Your Next Travel Obsession for the Holidays

Mumbai, June 2025: American Tourister teams up with LoveChild Masaba for the launch of the 'Urban Collection', a stylish new line of luggage that is set to become your next travel obsession for the holidays. Bringing together functionality with unmistakable fashion-forward design, this collaboration infuses vacation-ready energy into every suitcase. This trendy, colourful campaign celebrates the spirit of wanderlust with a bold visual language that screams 'holiday mode'. The Urban Collection is an ode to modern-day travellers who crave both style and substance. This collection infuses American Tourister's international imagery with Masaba's signature bold prints and playful motifs, creating luggage that stands out both in style and functionality. Just in time for the summer getaway season, American Tourister X LoveChild Masaba collection captures the spirit of celebration, adventure, and relaxation and carries quirky holiday motifs in the designs. This range is all about celebrating travel as a joyful ritual. Known for her distinct aesthetic, Masaba Gupta not only lends her creative genius to the collection but also stars in the campaign, showcasing her signature blend of style, confidence, and charm. With perky, vibrant colours and holiday-inspired prints, the collection reflects Masaba's free-spirited design DNA, brought together with American Tourister's global reputation for travelling smoothly and in style. The campaign captures Masaba in playful, vibrant settings mirroring the versatility of the collection. Whether it's a burst of pastel, or a tropical motif, each suitcase stands out on the carousel and turns every travel moment into a photo-op. Anushree Tainwala, Executive Director Marketing, Samsonite South Asia, shared 'This collection is all about celebrating the joy of travel with a fresh, youthful energy. This collaboration with LoveChild by Masaba is a celebration of bold individuality and the vibrant spirit of travel. We've always believed that luggage can be both stylish and functional, and the Urban Collection truly embodies that philosophy. With its playful colours, fresh prints, and standout design, this collection is a perfect reflection of the modern Indian traveller, confident, expressive, and ready for adventure.' Masaba Gupta, Founder, LoveChild Masaba said, 'LoveChild is a bold expression of self and with the Urban Collection, we wanted to channel that energy into something as essential as luggage. For me, travel is all about the journey and feeling like my most authentic self; keeping that as core inspiration for the collaboration, we brought the playfulness of LoveChild and functionality of American Tourister to curate a quirky, colourful, and built to stand out collection for the modern day travellers." The collection offers a new-age, fresh look for luggage, making it the perfect companion for jet-setters, digital nomads, and holidaymakers who don't want to blend in. The polycarbonate luggage is designed with both style and function in mind, making it an ideal travel companion for any journey. Equipped with a TSA-approved lock, it ensures enhanced security during transit, while smooth-rolling double wheels offer effortless manoeuvrability through airports and city streets. The interior features a specially printed lining to protect belongings, along with multiple organiser pockets that simplify packing and keep essentials neatly in place. Adding to its appeal, the luggage comes with a global warranty, making international travel truly stress-free. Link to the TVC: About American Tourister American Tourister is a globally recognized brand that offers a wide range of stylish and durable travel gear. With a commitment to quality and innovation, American Tourister continues to set new standards in the travel industry, providing travellers with reliable and trendy solutions for all their travel needs. For more information, visit or follow us on (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with NRDPL and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.).

India.com

27 minutes ago

• India.com

5 Must-Have Matte Lipsticks for Every Makeup Lover

Zee Media Bureau Jun 23, 2025 This formula blends the best of both worlds — the softness of a mousse and the staying power of a liquid matte. Infused with skin-loving ingredients, it gives your lips a velvety texture without drying them out. Order Now FAE (Free and Equal) Beauty brings performance with inclusivity. Their Lip Whip is a 12-hour wear formula with a cushiony soft matte texture that glides effortlessly. Order Now A cult favorite, the Rouge Signature line offers ink-like pigmentation with a feather-light feel. It sets quickly and delivers intense color payoff in just one swipe. Order Now Compact and cute, this mini mousse lipstick by Lakmé delivers a velvet matte finish perfect for soft glam looks. The whipped formula is comfortable yet buildable. Order Now MARS brings practicality with this creamy yet smudge-proof lip crayon. The brown shades are especially flattering on Indian skin tones, and the formula doesn't budge once it sets. Order Now At IDPL, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. It should not be construed as an endorsement to buy. IDPL may make a very small commission from its sale if one chooses to buy the product from any of the links in this webstory. Read Next Story

First Post

30 minutes ago

• First Post

How Karan Johar's ‘The Traitors' on Prime Video is redefining reality TV

The new reigning champion is Karan Johar's 'The Traitors'. Prime Videos The Traitors is winning it all as the new king of reality shows. read more In the entertainment world, there are all kinds of reality shows that arrive with unique concepts. Engaging, captivating, and often one-of-a-kind, these shows manage to keep audiences hooked with their gameplay and the dynamics among contestants. One such standout show is Prime Video's The Traitors. With its debut season, the show has introduced a concept that's nothing short of revolutionary in the realm of reality TV. It's a psychological game of a completely different order unexpected, intense, and highly intriguing. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Traitors isn't your typical reality show. Unlike others that test physical strength or encourage forming real alliances, this one is purely about mind games. Featuring many familiar faces with unfamiliar strategies, it delivers twists the audience would never see coming. While it's entertaining for viewers, for the contestants, it's a true survival challenge. Just when you think you've figured out the game, it flips, and that unpredictability is exactly what makes it so fascinating. Adding to its charm is host Karan Johar, who brilliantly balances entertainment and tension, keeping the audience engaged and the contestants constantly on edge. The format is unique: among the players are several 'Innocents,' but lurking among them are the 'Traitors.' A concept like this has never been seen before on Indian television. Prime Video has once again hit it out of the park. They have proven yet again that they have a strong library of engaging content for viewers. Whether it's web shows, films, series, or now even reality shows, they are excelling across all formats of entertainment. The Traitors has completely transformed the landscape of reality shows. In this game, no one is truly yours, trust is a trap. It tests your patience, disrupts your peace, and plays with your emotions. Every move is a gamble. In The Traitors, survival hinges not on strength, but on sheer mental resilience. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD