Imran Abbas: ‘They Called Me a Liar About Bollywood Offers’

Actor Imran Abbas has openly expressed his disappointment at being labeled a liar for revealing that he received multiple Bollywood film offers.

Despite his honesty, he faced heavy criticism and mockery, especially after sharing that he was considered for a role in the Heera Mandi web series. He clarified that renowned filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali himself later confirmed he had considered casting Abbas and other Pakistani artists, but this acknowledgment failed to silence his critics.

Bollywood Offered Different Roles to Imran Abbas

In interviews on national TV, Abbas explained that he had indeed been approached for several Bollywood projects, though circumstances prevented him from accepting. “People called me a liar when I mentioned Heera Mandi,” he said, adding that these accusations largely stemmed from trust in Indian journalists—some of whom, he pointed out, are banned in India for spreading misinformation—over his statements.

Abbas emphasized his two-decade-long career in the entertainment industry, including several Indian films, and questioned why he would fabricate such claims on public platforms. “Why would I lie about offers from filmmakers like Sanjay Leela Bhansali or Rajkumar Hirani? These are respected names, and I wouldn’t misuse them,” he asserted.

He elaborated further, stating, “I’ve always been clear: I received these offers but couldn’t accept them due to circumstances, not because I turned them down.” He cited several examples, including being approached for Aashiqui 2, a role he couldn’t take because of contractual obligations with Akshay Kumar’s production. Similarly, he was considered for Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Guzaarish in 2010 and the role of Sarfaraz in Aamir Khan’s PK, ultimately played by Sushant Singh Rajput.

Abbas shared his regret at being dismissed as dishonest, even by people in rural areas, and expressed how deeply it saddened him. “I genuinely wanted to work on these projects, but the circumstances didn’t align. Yet, my honesty was met with disbelief and ridicule,” he concluded.

Also Read: Imran Abbas Meets Iraqi PM, Attends Arbaeen Event