‘Fauji’: From Shah Rukh Khan to Vikram Chopra, Meet the OG Cast Members of Doordarshan Serial and Where They Are Now!
The iconic serial Fauji, which propelled Shah Rukh Khan to stardom in 1989, is set for a revival as Fauji 2. Filmmaker Sandeep Singh and national broadcaster Doordarshan have joined forces to reimagine this classic show, with Gauahar Khan as Lieutenant Colonel Simarjeet Kaur and Vikas Jain as Colonel Sanjay Singh taking on lead roles. ‘Fauji 2’: Sequel to Shah Rukh Khan’s 1989 Show Announced; Vikas Jain and Gauahar Khan to Lead Modern Take On Iconic Series (Watch Video).
As we anticipate the new season, let’s revisit the original Fauji, which aired on DD National in 1989 under the direction of Raj Kumar Kapoor. Here’s a list of important cast members from Fauji and where they are now.
Shah Rukh Khan as Lt Abhimanyu Rai
Ye naam toh suna hi hoga! The television series Fauji introduced Shah Rukh Khan to audiences as the charismatic Abhimanyu Rai, a young soldier-in-training. Inspired by Lt Col Sanjoy Bannerji of the Bombay Sappers, Rai’s character quickly resonated with viewers. Khan’s standout performance in Fauji propelled him to stardom, paving the way for his successful Bollywood debut in 1992 with Deewana.
Since then, Khan has consistently captivated audiences with his versatile acting skills and charm becoming one of the biggest stars in Indian cinema, if not the biggest and also a global icon. He earned the title of King of Romance with iconic films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and Dil To Pagal Hai. However, Khan’s talent extends far beyond romantic roles. He has demonstrated his versatility through critically acclaimed films like Chak De! India, Swades, and My Name Is Khan, solidifying his status as a global icon. His latest releases were blockbusters Jawan, Pathaan and Dunki.
Sequel to SRK’s ‘Fauji’ Announced
Vishwajeet Pradhan as N/Sub Yaseen Khan
Vishwajeet Pradhan was a prominent figure in the Fauji series alongside Shah Rukh Khan. His performance as a fellow soldier-in-training showcased his talent and contributed to the show’s success. Beyond Fauji, Pradhan is renowned for his roles in films like Kya Dilli Kya Lahore, where he portrayed a Pakistani Captain. His recent work was in Salman Khan’s Radhe (2021), where he took on the role of ACP Arjun. He also has been part of Sushmita Sen’s Aarya as Sampat and plays Maharaj Daksha in the show Shiv Shakti – Tap Tyaag Tandav.
Amina Shervani as Kiran Kochar
Amina Shervani portrayed Kiran Kochap, the love interest of Rakesh Sharma’s character, Major Vikram Rai, in the 1989 Indian television series aired on DD National. According to her LinkedIn profile, she currently serves as the Director of Business Development at Charuvi Design Labs Pvt. Ltd (CDL). Shah Rukh Khan Fulfills Late IAF Pilot Abhimanyu Rai’s Parents’ Wish to Meet Him – Reports.
Vikram Chopra as Lt Varuneshwar Singhji Parmeshwar Singhji Chauhan
Vikram Chopra, nephew of renowned Indian filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra, is also an actor and director. He has made significant contributions to both the film and television industries. Chopra’s acting credits include notable Bollywood films like Bada Din, Sangharsh, and Mission Kashmir. His last film appearance was in Bheja Fry in 2007, while his most recent television work was in the series X Zone from 1998 to 2000. He made his directorial debut with Fight Club: Members Only (2006), which starred Sohail Khan, Riteish Deshmukh, Dino Morea and Suniel Shetty.
Jayshree Arora as Abhimanyu’s Mother
Jayshree Arora, who portrayed Shah Rukh Khan’s mother in the original Fauji, is a talented actress and dancer. Trained in Kathak and Manipuri dance, Arora began her acting career in 1984 with the groundbreaking Indian TV serial Hum Log. Her most recent television appearance was in the series Dev (2017) as Zohra Apa.
‘Fauji’ Plot
The 1989 series follows a group of recruits undergoing training to become commandos in the Indian Army, led by Major KG Naraynan. The recruits face rigorous physical training, pranks and punishments. Originally, Rakesh Sharma was slated to play the lead, but Shah Rukh Khan’s performance was so captivating that the script was changed to make him the star.
Where to Watch ‘Fauji’ Online?
If you’re eager to see Shah Rukh Khan in a completely different role and haven’t experienced the iconic 1989 show, Fauji, you’re in luck. Fauji is now available for streaming online. You can watch it for free on JioCinema and YouTube or subscribe to Amazon Prime Video for access.
(To note, details on Fauji actor Rakesh Sharma as Major Vikram “Vicky” Rai is not available online)
(The above story first appeared on Today News 24 on Oct 15, 2024 05:59 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website todaynews24.top).
