Dilip Kumar Was Once Offered To Star In A Big-Budget Hollywood Film But He Declined It

In 2012 – on the occasion of the 90th birthday, Dilip Kumar got candid about turning down the Hollywood film Lawrence of Arabia.

This Wednesday, we woke up to learn that Dilip Kumar Saab , a talented actor, has died at the age of 98. The talented actor is still missed by the nation, as well as those from across the border. His family and close friends are getting ready to attend his funeral later today. We are remembering him and his incredible world in Bollywood. Here is some trivia about the star.

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He was offered the chance to make his Hollywood debut in 1960s, but he declined it. According to reports and Omar Sheriff's own admission, he was offered the role of Lawrence of Arabia (1962) by David Lean. Omar Sheriff finally played the role of Sherif Ali, ibn al Kharish. Continue reading to learn why he rejected it.

In 2012, Dilip Kumar spoke out about his decision to reject the Hollywood movie Lawrence of Arabia in an interview with Times Of India. "I made a decision that was right at the time," said the veteran actor. In humility, I'd like to state that I viewed the offer using the same criteria as all other offers at the time.

Dilip Kumar added that he didn't feel the need to travel to Hollywood to satisfy himself.

Director David Lean did not want an actor from Europe to play the role in the film. David Lean wanted an authentic actor. He used his knowledge from India to choose Dilip Saab for the role. According to reports, David tried to convince Dilip Kumar to join his film by setting up a meeting but to no avail. Omar Sheriff finally took on the role.

The success of David Lean Lawrence Of Arabia earned it 10 Oscar nominations at 35th Academy Awards. It was also the winner in 7. These awards included Best Picture, Best Director and Best Art Direction – Color, Best Cinematography, Best Cinematography, Best Film Editing, Best Music Score, Substantially Original and Best Sound. David. Omar was also nominated in the Best Actor category in Supporting Role, but it was lost to Ed Begley (Sweet Bird of Youth) as Tom Boss Finley.

Dilip Kumar Saab, you will be greatly missed.

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