Subhash K Jha (DNA; May 9, 2014)

It’s final. The role of Priyanka Chopra, in the film based on her life, will be played by newbie Sakshi Chaudhary. The film is adapted from the book penned by her former secretary Prakash Jaju. But before 67 Days, Sakshi will be seen opposite John Abraham in the next instalment of the Hera Pheri franchise.

Says a source close to the project, “She will play the role after studying PC’s movies very closely. Sakshi is not a movie buff. But Aseem Merchant (the producer and Priyanka’s former boyfriend) wants her to adopt PC’s body language and mannerisms. There will also be an attempt to recreate some of PC’s early songs and dances from Andaaz and Aitraaz.”

Sakshi says, “Yes, I am playing the part in the film. I guess they thought I was suitable for it. I was never star-struck. But PC is a good actress. Hopefully I will play a good actress well.”

As for reports of Priyanka being miffed by this film, Aseem defends his creative freedom arguing, “The film is about Jaju, not Priyanka. It is about his experiences in Bollywood and will cover the entire entertainment industry. I respect and admire Priyanka. In no way, I am trying to malign or hurt her. As a producer I am only trying to make a realistic film.”