Suniel Shetty Consulted Sanjay Dutt Before Taking His Role in ‘Welcome to the Jungle’ – Exclusive

Suniel Shetty, known for his macho image, comic timing, and films like *Hera Pheri*, *Phir Hera Pheri*, *Awara Paagal Deewana*, *One Two Three*, and *De Dhana Dhan*, made headlines recently for his role in the third installment of the *Welcome* series, titled *Welcome to the Jungle*. He stepped in after Sanjay Dutt exited the project, and Jackie Shroff took over the role initially intended for Shetty.

According to a source, Shetty chose a different role in the film, which is now played by Jackie Shroff, because of the upcoming sequels for *Hera Pheri* and *Awara Paagal Deewana*. When Sanjay Dutt left the film, Ahmed and Firoz Nadiadwala approached Shetty to play the lovable Don character. Due to his long-standing friendship and respect for Firoz, Shetty agreed. Before accepting the role, Shetty sought permission from Sanjay Dutt, and only after receiving Dutt’s blessing did he proceed.

The source also mentioned that Shetty is excited about his challenging role and thrilled that Jackie Shroff, known for his swag and flamboyance, is perfect for the part he ultimately took. The film boasts a star-studded cast, including Akshay Kumar, Paresh Rawal, Raveena Tandon, Lara Dutta, Disha Patani, Tusshar Kapoor, Shreyas Talpade, and many more.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that Farah Khan revealed that Naseeruddin Shah declined to play the villain in Shah Rukh Khan’s *Main Hoon Na*, describing Shah as “very moody.”