Filmmaker Suneel Darshan recently opened up about the alleged relationship between Akshay Kumar and Priyanka Chopra, revealing details about how it impacted his film *Barsaat* and ultimately strained his long-standing professional partnership with Akshay.
The Rumored Affair That Rocked Bollywood
The speculated romance between Bollywood stars Akshay Kumar and Priyanka Chopra has been a topic of much discussion over the years. The duo worked together in successful films like *Andaaz*, *Aitraaz*, and *Waqt: The Race Against Time* in the early 2000s.
Their on-screen chemistry was evident, leading many to believe their relationship extended beyond professional boundaries. Despite widespread rumors, neither actor ever publicly addressed the speculation.
Akshay’s Unexpected Ultimatum
Director Suneel Darshan had planned to cast both Akshay and Priyanka in his film *Barsaat*, and they even shot a song together. However, Darshan recounts a surprising meeting where Akshay presented him with a tough choice.
Akshay reportedly informed Darshan that there were “uncontrollable issues” affecting his personal life and asked the director to choose between him or Priyanka for the film. Darshan expressed his shock at this sudden ultimatum, especially after waiting 18 months for Akshay.
Twinkle Khanna’s Involvement
According to Darshan, the “uncontrollable issues” stemmed directly from the public and media buzz surrounding the alleged affair. He stated that the rumors reached Akshay’s wife, Twinkle Khanna.
In a previous interview, Darshan had even suggested that Twinkle had temporarily left Akshay’s home after discovering the rumored relationship. He emphasized that as an actor, one must be responsible, especially when their spouse is also from the industry and understands its dynamics.
A Partnership Ends
Darshan also reflected on his extensive professional history with Akshay Kumar. He claimed that Akshay was facing a string of flops when Darshan offered him *Jaanwar*, a film that revitalized Akshay’s career. Akshay had reportedly promised to do 100 films with Darshan, but their successful collaboration concluded after only seven.
The *Barsaat* incident was a significant turning point. Darshan ultimately signed Bobby Deol for the film but kept Priyanka Chopra, as he felt she was not responsible for the “unethical” condition placed upon him. Their working relationship, however, gradually fizzled out, with Darshan stating he hasn’t met Akshay in two decades.
- Filmmaker Suneel Darshan revealed that Akshay Kumar gave him an ultimatum to choose between him or Priyanka Chopra for the film *Barsaat*.
- This decision was allegedly prompted by rumors of an affair between Akshay and Priyanka, which reportedly reached Akshay’s wife, Twinkle Khanna.
- The incident contributed to the end of Darshan’s long-standing professional partnership with Akshay Kumar.
While the actors involved have largely remained silent on the specifics of this alleged controversy, Darshan’s recent statements offer a rare glimpse into a much-speculated chapter of Bollywood history.
