Omkara: Saif Ali Khan’s Langda Tyagi was first offered to Aamir Khan but Vishal Bhardwaj decided to not go ahead with him - Here's why

The year 2006 marked a period of transformation in Bollywood’s commercial cinema. One of the most significant changemakers was Vishal Bhardwaj, who followed up his Macbeth-inspired Maqbool with another Shakespearean adaptation, Omkara, based on Othello. Unlike Maqbool, Omkara had a more commercial appeal, boasting an ensemble cast led by Ajay Devgn and Kareena Kapoor Khan. While the two received immense praise for their performances, one character and actor stood out and has since become iconic in Hindi cinema: Saif Ali Khan as Langda Tyagi. But did you know Saif wasn’t the first choice for the role?

Aamir Khan Was the First Choice for Langda Tyagi

Othello is one of William Shakespeare's most celebrated works. In Omkara, Vishal Bhardwaj set the story against an Indian backdrop, infusing it with local culture and nuances. Among the most vividly crafted characters was Langda Tyagi, inspired by Iago. While Saif Ali Khan immortalized the role with his brilliant performance, it was originally offered to Aamir Khan. However, creative differences between Bhardwaj and Aamir led to the filmmaker reconsidering his choice.

Saif Ali Khan later confirmed that Aamir Khan was the initial pick for Langda Tyagi. According to reports, after reading the script, Aamir—known for his perfectionism—suggested some changes. Bhardwaj, however, was not open to altering his vision for the character or the film. As a result, the collaboration did not materialize, paving the way for Saif’s casting.

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How Saif Ali Khan Became Langda Tyagi

At the time, Saif was contemplating a shift in his on-screen persona. According to an India Today report, while on a call with his mother, Sharmila Tagore, Saif expressed his desire to break away from his existing image. Sharmila advised, "You should find a Shakespearean role; that will give you the change you want." Saif dismissed the idea, saying, "Where do I find Shakespeare? I don't know if anyone is adapting it." Coincidentally, soon after, Vishal Bhardwaj approached him for the role of Langda Tyagi.

Initially, Saif was hesitant. He reportedly wanted to play Othello (the titular character), but Bhardwaj insisted he take on the role of Iago (Langda Tyagi). Bhardwaj’s conviction ultimately gave Saif the confidence to accept the part. The result was a career-defining performance that remains a benchmark in Hindi cinema.

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