Sonali Joshi Pitale (MID-DAY; June 7, 2016)

Shekhar Kapur’s Paani, which has been in the making for over a decade, seems to be in revival mode. Earlier this year, Yash Raj Films apparently pulled out of the ‘forever’ project following creative differences with Kapur. However, the filmmaker’s recent meeting with model-turned-actress Sobhita Dhulipala has sparked rumours of a possible resurrection of the project — and casting of the leading lady. So far, only Sushant Singh Rajput had been signed for Paani.

A source says, “Sobhita is making her acting debut with Anurag Kashyap’s Raman Raghav 2.0 starring Nawazuddin Siddiqui. Those who have seen her work have appreciated her and recently, she even met Kapur for a long chat.”

The meeting took place at a suburban hotel, reveals the source, adding, “Shekhar was heard discussing a film project with her. However, it is not known if they was about Paani or another film. The meeting went on for a couple of hours.” Shekhar remained unavailable for comment.

There have been speculations about many actresses being considered for Paani, but without a confirmation from the filmmaker’s end. Reportedly, Shekhar is trying to get a major film studio to back his film after YRF abandoned it. Meanwhile, there is buzz about Sobhita being in a relationship with a Bollywood actor. She has confirmed it without revealing his identity.