Kaif’s team claims she didn’t back out
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; September 17, 2016)

The much-speculated reunion of ex-flames Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif for upcoming rom-com, Fuddu, has come to a naught. The two were supposed to recite shayaris for a romantic track in the film, but the actress has apparently pulled out of it. The film in question is the directorial debut of Sunil Subramani, who has assisted Anurag Basu. It was the filmmaker who convinced Ranbir to be part of his protégé’s project. Sunil and Ranbir, too, go back a long way.

A unit hand says, “The makers had approached them to recite a few couplets. Ranbir obliged, but Kat backed out. The producers tried their best to get her on board, but she wasn’t comfortable doing it. Their next film, Anurag’s Jagga Jasoos, is a commitment they are both deeply invested in, so they can’t back out from that. But, Fuddu was a favour for a friend and she decided not to keep her side of the promise.”

Katrina’s spokesperson, however, maintains, “She was supposed to do a voice-over for Fuddu, which she recorded long ago. She hasn’t backed out of it.”

The film’s producer, Pradeep Gupta, on the other hand, confirms that the actress ditched the offer: “It is sad that Katrina couldn’t be part of the project. But, in any case, I am sure her best wishes are with us. We are glad Ranbir could make time for our film.”

Interestingly, the film’s poster also credits Ranbir alone for the shayari; there is no mention of Katrina anymore.