A unique aspect of Billu 's casting was the inclusion of top-tier actresses for special musical numbers. These appearances were heavily marketed and contributed significantly to the film's initial hype.
SRK plays a fictionalized version of himself: a global megastar. The meta-commentary is brilliant. As Sahir Khan, SRK gets the film's best dance numbers ("Marjaani" and "Love Mera Hit Hit") and the most expensive costumes. But his best moments are the quiet ones—specifically the flashback scenes where he plays a young, struggling nobody remembering the friend who fed him. His chemistry with Irrfan is electric because it feels like two acting titans playing catch.
The casting of Billu was the film's strongest asset. While the narrative followed a standard formula, the decision to cast Irrfan Khan as the simple villager opposite Shah Rukh Khan's superstar persona created a compelling dynamic. The film serves as a testament to Irrfan Khan's versatility and remains a notable entry in Shah Rukh Khan's filmography for its production value and special appearances.
The film features a core ensemble cast supported by high-profile cameo appearances.
Shah Rukh Khan played a meta-version of a Bollywood superstar.
Lara Dutta played the female lead, appearing in a de-glamorized avatar to suit the rural setting.
Directed by Priyadarshan, Billu is a remake of the Malayalam classic Katha Parayumpol . It tells the poignant story of a poor barber, Billu, whose life is turned upside down when a massive film crew, led by the world-famous superstar Sahir Khan (SRK), arrives in his village. But while SRK provides the star power, the soul of the film rests on the shoulders of its incredible ensemble.
Billu - Full Cast & Crew - TV Guide. Billu - Full Cast & Crew. 2009. 2 hr 17 mins. Comedy, Drama. Based in Budbuda, Uttar Pradesh, TVGuide.com Full cast & crew - Billu (2009) - IMDb
as Zallan Kumar (also known as Budbudiya), a quirky villager who adds comedic flair. Asrani as Naubat Chacha, an elder in the village. Manoj Joshi as Damodar Dubey.