It was a role coveted by Aamir Khan, but Omkar Das Manikpuri, who plays the lead in Peepli Live, made the superstar step aside for him with his performance at the casting auditions.
Director Anusha Rizvi auditioned the newcomer for a small role but he was cast as the protagonist Natha instead by Aamir even though he himself was keen to play the character.
"Aamirji and Anushaji (director) saw my audition and he told me, ’Omkarji I was planning to play Natha but I am very impressed with your audition. Only you can play Natha’.
It was the happiest day of my life," Manikpuri said.