Mani Ratnam is one of the legendary directors of Indian cinema, and it's a dream for many to work with the director. But veteran actor Mohan had once rejected to be part of Mani Ratnam's 'Anjali' and the actor revealed the reason in his YouTube chat with CineUlagam. Mohan was initially offered the lead role in Mani Ratnam's directorial 'Anjali'. But he refused to be part of the children's drama as he had creative differences with the legendary director and the veteran actor could not accept the fact of keeping the physically challenged kid in a separate room.

Later, Raghuvaran was roped in for the lead role in 'Anjali' and the film was released in 1990.

Before 'Anjali', Mohan acted under Mani Ratnam's direction in the films 'Idaya Kovil' and 'Mouna Ragam'. But after refusing to be part of 'Anjali', Mohan wasn't part of any films of Mani Ratnam, and the wait for the duo's reunion continues for more than 30 years.

Directed by Mani Ratnam, 'Anjali' is celebrated for its sensitive portrayal of a family's struggles with a physically ill child. Baby Shamili's portrayal of Anjali is both innocent and impactful, capturing the essence of the character with remarkable sensitivity. The children's drama is regarded as a landmark in Mani Ratnam’s illustrious career and the film was India's official entry to the Oscars in 1991, but failed to make it to the final nomination.