South Indian filmmaker Shaji Karun is having a hard time finding a heroine for his ambitious movie on the life of legendary painter Raja Ravi Verma. The role was first offered to Madhuri Dixit. But the comeback diva reportedly had apprehensions about depiction of nudity in the film.
Titled ‘Suryamukhi’, the movie tells the story of Raja Ravi Verma and his muse, a Maharashtrian woman, who used to pose for him (sometimes even nude). The film’s story is set in late 19th and early 20th century.
After Madhuri did not show much interest in the project, the role was then offered to Vidya Balan, who, unfortunately, was too busy to spare the dates, as the official version goes.
Now, the film’s producer Bobby Bedi and Shaji Karun have zeroed in on Preity Zinta for the role. According to Bobby, Preity has the elegance and intensity to play the role.
Bobby also makes it clear that there will be no nudity in the film.
Madhavan has been signed to play Raja Ravi Verma. The role was previously offered to Ajay Devgan who, like Madhuri, did not show interest in the project.
Reports have it that Bobby Bedi has already spoken once to Preity about the project. Further negotiations will be held soon to get Preity on board.
Shaji Karun has plans to shoot the entire film in Mumbai.