Ankur Pathak (MUMBAI MIRROR; March 1, 2014)

While Salman Khan may be the reel-life Prem, a real-life counterpart, who goes by the same name, is now gearing up to make his foray into acting. Director Prem Raj, known for films like the Salman Khan-Kareena Kapoor starrer Main aur Mrs Khanna and Preity Zinta's first home production Ishkq in Paris, is ready to make the transition.

Mirror has learnt that a major studio is producing the film. Tentatively titled Laila Manju, it will be a spin off of the 1975 Rishi Kapoor-Neetu Singh hit, Rafoo Chakkar. The film is expected to roll in July and the hunt is on for an actrress to play the role essayed by Neetu Singh.

 Soni confirmed the news saying, "I’ve been training for the last six months and have lost around 12 kilos. The acting offer came as a surprise, but I've decided to take on the challenge.”

 Soni admits it will be difficult to fit into Rishi's shoes in the crazy caper. He says, "I’m scared as hell, but since my heart is in this project, I’m sure I will pull it off.”