Aishwarya Rai is formally out of 'Heroine'; Priyanka Chopra not replacing her

Madhur Bhandarkar’s ambitious project Heroine is in the news again! A lot has been talked about whether Aishwarya Rai’s pregnancy would affect the shooting of the film or not. But now the final word is out that since the movie would require Ash to dance, smoke and run, UTV Productions have decided that they cannot complete the project as Aishwarya, being in pregnancy stage, should not risk her health.

UTV movies released a press release stating: “We would like to put an end to the speculative and factually incorrect stories that are doing the rounds on Heroine, and to clarify the position on the film once and for all. At this point nothing is more important than Aishwarya's well being and good health. In that context, we have all mutually agreed that the best step would be to avoid shooting further, rather than proceeding with an incredibly demanding schedule over the coming months. Even as we will truly miss this opportunity to work with Aishwarya, the entire unit wishes her the very best for the exciting time ahead, as she and Abhishek move into this special new phase in their lives.”

Since it has been announced that Ash is not a part of the film anymore, buzz suggested that the film might be shelved and Madhur could consider shooting the movie with some other actress. Rumours stated that Priyanka Chopra had shown keen interest in replacing Aish and even sms’ed Madhur to cast her!

However, Priyanka Chopra dismissed all rumours and wrote on a social networking website: “read some stupid article about how i wanna do @mbhandarkar268 s (Madhur Bhandarkar) film HEROINE..i think madhur is an amazing director and it'll be amazing to work together again but GUYS this one aint it!!! I wish him and Aishwarya lots of luck with the film.”

So will the movie be shelved? Will it be shot with some other actress? Or will it be shot later with Aishwarya? The never-ending suspense surrounding Heroine continues…