The Highest-Grossing Film Of 2012 That Bagged 19 Awards – Hard To Believe Hrithik Rejected It!
By News18,Parishmita Saikia
Copyright news18
Around 13 years ago, a film hit the big screen and became a massive box office success. Not only did it rake in impressive earnings, but it also made history by winning 19 awards. Today, we’re revisiting that very film: Ek Tha Tiger.
Released in 2012, Ek Tha Tiger marked the beginning of YRF’s Spy Universe. Starring Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif in lead roles, the film also featured supporting performances by Ranvir Shorey, Girish Karnad, Roshan Seth, and Rajendra Sethi.
The story revolves around Tiger (played by Salman Khan), a fearless agent working for India’s intelligence agency, RAW. He is sent on a mission to Dublin, Ireland, where he must keep a close watch on an Indian scientist suspected of potentially leaking sensitive defence information to Pakistan.
While in Dublin, Tiger meets Zoya (Katrina Kaif), the professor’s caretaker. She’s smart, independent, and charming, and Tiger falls for her. But a shocking twist turns the story on its head: Zoya is actually an agent for Pakistan’s ISI.
From that point on, the plot takes a gripping turn, blending espionage, romance, and high-octane action. Salman Khan delivered thrilling action sequences and stunts, while the music became a sensation. Songs like Mashallah, Saiyyara, and Banjara were instant chartbusters.
Directed by Kabir Khan, the film also stood out for the sizzling on-screen chemistry between Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif, which was praised widely.
Interestingly, according to IMDb, the role was initially offered to Hrithik Roshan, who had to decline due to other commitments. The role then went to Salman Khan, who readily agreed, and the rest, as they say, is history.
According to Bollywood Hungama, Ek Tha Tiger grossed around Rs 276 crores in India and Rs 334.39 crores worldwide, making it a blockbuster and the highest-grossing Indian film of 2012. That year, it was followed by Dabangg 2, Jab Tak Hai Jaan, Agneepath, and Rowdy Rathore.
So far, three films have been released in the Tiger franchise, with Ek Tha Tiger proudly leading the way as the film that started it all.
