Asira Tarannum (MID-DAY; September 19, 2014)

If sources are to be believed, Akshaye Khanna is no longer a part of Dev Benegal’s upcoming film, Bombay Samurai. It may be pointed out that Akshaye Khanna was reportedly interfering a lot with the film’s script and getting his role re- written. Now we hear that the makers are now considering other actors for his role.

This film, apparently starring Akshaye in an out-and-out negative role, was supposed to be the actor’s comeback vehicle; the actor has no other film in hand. A source says, “Since it was his comeback film, he was not leaving any stone unturned to get this role right. After reading the script, Akshaye discussed his role once again with the film’s makers and he then asked for some changes. Now the filmmakers want to rope in Irrfan instead but his dates are not available as of now.”

The source adds that the makers are choosing to replace Akshaye only because they weren’t very happy with his interference. “It reached a point where too many changes were being asked to be made in the script. So the makers decided to sign on another actor. The official announcement for the same is yet to be made, but the makers have started approaching other actors for Akshaye’s role,” says the source.

Irrfan and producer Ritesh Sidhwani remained unavailable for comment.