The film was based on director Vidhu Vinod Chopra's personal love story from his youth. He selected Bobby Deol as Bobby resembled Vidhu when he was young.
Mamta Kulkarni was the original choice for Neha's role.
2 background pieces were used in Munnabhai series.
Sanjay Leela Bhansali was offered to direct the film but he turned it down.
Before 1942- A Love Story, Vidhu had narrated the subject of Kareeb to Anil Kapoor. Anil did not like the story and suggested to Vidhu to to write a period film based on love.Thats how 1942- A Love Story happened.