Isha Koppikar, who rose to prominence in the 2000s with films like Company, Krishna Cottage and Don, took a gradual sabbatical from the industry in the early 2010s. Recently, the Don actor spoke up about some mistakes and regrets of her career, including turning down Dil Chahta Hai, Farhan Akhtar’s seminal debut which released in 2001.
In an interview with Bollywood Bubble, Isha described refusing Dil Chahta Hai as the ‘biggest regret of her life.’ Elaborating further, the actor said, “I had signed Pyaar Ishq Mohabbat, and I could have easily told the makers that I also want to do Dil Chahta Hai or that I want to leave your film for another film.” Attributing her decision to lack of guidance, Isha added, “I had no one to guide me at that time, Also, I have such high values in life that once I commit to something, I don’t listen to myself. But I wish I did some jugaad (arrangement) back then.” Isha did not give details of the role she turned down in Dil Chahta Hai, though.
It is to be noted that Dil Chahta Hai released a few weeks after Pyaar Ishq aur Mohabbat. While Pyaar Ishq aur Mohabbat bombed at the box office, DCH became an instant classic. Incidentally, Isha became an overnight sensation within an year with her special appearance in Company (2002), in the ‘Khallas’ music video.
Isha is most known for her performances in supporting roles in films like Don, Hum Tum, and Dil Ka Rishta. Her last major film, before Isha took a sabbatical, was Shabri (2011). In the last few years, post her return, Isha has worked in a few OTT shows and the Tamil film Ayalaan (2024).
