The Almost Dream Role: How Parmeet Sethi's Son Nearly Stepped Onto Broadway's DDLJ Stage

It’s a story we hear often in the world of showbiz, isn’t it? The one about the role that almost was, the big break just a whisper away. And in truth, it’s often those 'almosts' that reveal the most about talent, tenacity, and the sheer unpredictability of it all. This particular tale, unfolding recently, involves Ayushmaan Sethi — son of the ever-charming actors Parmeet Sethi and Archana Puran Singh — and a truly iconic Bollywood saga.

You see, Ayushmaan, a talented young man in his own right, found himself on the cusp of something quite remarkable: a role in the Broadway musical adaptation of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. Yes, that DDLJ. The film that practically redefined romance for a generation, the one with Shah Rukh Khan’s unforgettable Raj and Kajol’s spirited Simran. The stage version, aptly titled “Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical,” made its grand debut at San Diego’s Old Globe Theatre in 2022, a pretty big deal.

Parmeet Sethi, during a recent chat, opened up about his son's journey, and honestly, it sounds like quite the nail-biter. Ayushmaan wasn't just casually considered; he was deep into the audition process, navigating multiple rounds right there in Mumbai. But then, things got really serious. He flew all the way to New York for the final leg, engaging in workshops and going through those ultimate, make-or-break auditions. Imagine the tension, the hope!

And who was at the helm of this ambitious musical, shaping its transition from screen to stage? None other than Aditya Chopra, the visionary director of the original DDLJ. He was, in essence, personally involved in the casting, meticulously choosing who would bring these beloved characters to life for a global audience. Ayushmaan, bless his heart, was among the final two contenders for the part of Kuljeet, Simran’s fiancé. A character, you could say, who provides a crucial counterpoint to Raj’s charm.

Ultimately, the role went to Austin Colby. A decision, as it often is in such high-stakes productions, based on a myriad of factors only known to the casting directors. But the fact remains: Ayushmaan was right there. Parmeet Sethi, clearly a proud father, shared the encouraging feedback his son received, a testament to his talent. “He almost got it,” they said. And sometimes, those words, that recognition of being so close, mean just as much as landing the part itself, perhaps even more, serving as fuel for future endeavors. It’s a powerful reminder that even when the curtain doesn't rise exactly as planned, the journey itself is invaluable.