A lot has been said and written about celebrated filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s next directorial venture after Padmaavat (2018). While superstar Salman Khan has been confirmed to play the male lead in the untitled project, there has been no official confirmation regarding the female lead.
Though several names have cropped up in the past few weeks, the makers are yet to announce any name officially. Speculations were rife of late that after working with Deepika Padukone on Goliyon Ki Raasleela: Ram-Leela (2013), Bajirao Mastani (2015) and Padmaavat, Bhansali was planning to repeat his favourite actress Deepika Padukone in his next directorial venture also.
However, if sources close to Bhansali are to be believed, Deepika is not even being considered for the role. Instead, the filmmaker is looking at roping in a younger actress opposite Salman Khan in the film.
A well-placed source said, “The team has not approached Deepika for this film. The makers are still looking out for the right actress for this project.”
Meanwhile, Deepika Padukone will soon start filming her next Chhapaak. The film is being directed by Raazi (2018) fame Meghna Gulzar.
A visitor at an art exhibition titled 'Jashn-e-Saliman', showcasing the legacy of screenwriter Salim Khan and his son and Bollywood actor Salman Khan, on the eve of the latter's 60th birthday, in Mumbai, Friday, Dec. 26, 2025. (PTI Photo/Shashank Parade)
