Filmmaker Aanand L Rai is currently on the look out for the second leading lady for his next, starring Katrina Kaif and Shah Rukh Khan. While he was keen on having Deepika Padukone on board, the global star had to turn down the role as the dates of the film clashed with that of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s ‘Padmavati’.
With the film going on floors by the end of this month, the makers are now close to finalising Deepika’s replacement. Talking about this, a source revealed, “Aanand and SRK met a few nights ago and discussed the possibilities. After Deepika said no to the film, they have offered it to Anushka.”
He continued, “They will also be sitting for a narration together and give her a script reading either later this week or early next week. Anushka will hear it and decide if she wants to do it. But she is their first choice now, after DP.”
Talking about Katrina and Anushka’s much talked-about fun camaraderie, the source added, “Katrina and Anushka share a great rapport and they are extremely close to Shah Rukh. So, if Anushka says yes, it will be the ‘Jab Tak Hai Jaan’ cast returning with Aanand’s film.”
However, since Anushka too hasn’t given a heads-up for the film yet, the makers have another choice for the role. “Sonam has that pretty Indian face and gives out that vibe really well. Moreover, Aanand is extremely fond of Sonam. So if Anushka cops out, Sonam’s his next choice for sure,” revealed the source before signing off.
Credits: The DNA
(Also read: Deepika Padukone: I am extremely fond of Anushka and Katrina)
