Subhash K Jha (DNA; May 23, 2014)

Even before Sujoy Ghosh could stop reeling under the impact of his favourite ‘Balan’ (that’s what he calls Vidya) suddenly dropping out of his next true-life story of a female cop Durga Rani Singh, he has another crisis looming large over his project. According to sources, Sujoy’s second choice for the role — Kangana Ranaut — has also not worked out.

Says a source close to the project, “Sujoy had written the role of DRS for his ‘Balan’ just like he had written Kahaani for her. He never imagined she would opt out. The entire Kalimpong schedule that he had so meticulously planned with Vidya in May fell apart.” Not one to lick his wounds Sujoy immediately contacted his next choice, Kangana Ranaut, who this year is the ‘Queen’ of female-oriented films. Kangana was very keen to play Durga Rani Singh after Queen and Revolver Rani and tried her utmost to work schedule to fit the film in. However, it was not possible.

In a sudden move, Sujoy has apparently approached Kareena Kapoor Khan to play Durga. Says the source, “Kareena is understandably a bit skeptical since the role has gone to two other actresses before. But she has been keen to work with Sujoy ever since Kahaani and the logistics between the two are now being worked out.”

According to the source Sujoy will be flying to Goa this week to meet Kareena where she is shooting for Singham Returns. While Sujoy and Kareena refused to comment on these developments, the source insists
that Kareena’s presence in Durga Rani Singh is now only a matter of signing formal papers.