MUMBAI – They teamed up after a gap of five years (the last time being the 2008 hit, Bachna Ae Haseeno) for Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (YJHD). And they managed to hit the bullseye. As Ayan Mukerji’s latest hit continues to rake in money at the box office, it hardly comes as a surprise that filmmakers want to cast the duo together again.
One of the projects that has been in the news is Imtiaz Ali’s upcoming Ranbir-starrer. It’s believed that the director (who made Rockstar with Ranbir in 2011) has been in a dilemma over the female lead for a while. The yet-untitled project, to be produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, was always confirmed to star Ranbir. Now, we have learnt that Imtiaz has decided to bring back the currently hot pairing by roping in Deepika for the role.
“They haven’t put things on paper yet, but after YJHD, Imtiaz is sure about Deepika,” says an industry insider.
Deepika, of course, is known to share a great equation with the director, whom she worked with in Love Aaj Kal (2009). “They have been in touch. Imtiaz has already discussed the film and storyline with her. And she seems impressed,” the insider adds.
Interestingly, other names like Katrina Kaif and Alia Bhatt were doing the rounds as probable female leads too. “But what went in Deepika’s favour is her chemistry with Ranbir in YJHD,” adds the insider. The film, in all likelihood, will hit the floors around January 2014. “By that time, the hype over YJHD would be over, so Imtiaz can start his film on a new note.”
Despite repeated attempts, Deepika, Sajid and Imtiaz remained unavailable for comments. The insider adds, “Right now, none of them want to go on record, since a number of actors are vying for the part. But internally, the makers have decided on Deepika. Ranbir has also been sounded off about the same.”
