# Vijay Sethupathi's Bold Stand: Why He Turned Down Villain Roles Despite Sharing the Screen with Shah Rukh Khan **Imagine turning down a meaty villain role opposite Bollywood's King, Shah Rukh Khan, just to stay true to your principles.** That's exactly what Vijay Sethupathi did in the blockbuster *Jawan*, and in an exclusive interview, he opens up about his happiness in that decision despite the thrill of the collaboration.[1] Vijay Sethupathi, the versatile Tamil superstar known for his nuanced performances, played the antagonist Kalee Gaikwad in *Jawan*, the 2023 Hindi action thriller directed by Atlee.[1][2] Starring Shah Rukh Khan in a gripping dual role as army man Vikram Rathore and vigilante jailer Azad, the film also featured Nayanthara and Deepika Padukone in key parts.[1][2] It became a massive hit, blending high-octane action, emotional depth, and social commentary on corruption in India.[1] But Sethupathi's journey to *Jawan* wasn't straightforward. He revealed he refused several villainous roles beforehand, sticking to his choice of selective antagonist parts that align with his values.[1] "I was happy to share screen with Shah Rukh Khan," he shared, highlighting the joy of working with SRK despite passing on more conventional baddie offers.[1] Their on-screen clashes, including intense action sequences shot in Chennai and Thiruporur, delivered some of the film's most thrilling moments—like the "Zinda Banda" song in jail and weapon showdowns.[1][5]
Poster of *Jawan* showcasing SRK and Vijay Sethupathi's epic face-off. (Public domain promotional image)
Citations
1.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jawan_(film)
2.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=COv52Qyctws
3.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MWOlnZSnXJo
4.https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/vijay-sethupathi-on-shah-rukh-khan-you-cant-tell-if-hes-ill-until-he-says/articleshow/110762041.cms
5.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZUtWQMfZmI
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