Shaheen Parkar (MID-DAY; March 22, 2017)

Few would know that Rock On (2008) wasn’t supposed to be Farhan Akhtar’s acting debut. The filmmaker-actor had shot for another film titled The Fakir Of Venice, which will finally see the light of day soon. However, Farhan is yet to respond to the makers about joining the film’s promotion campaign.

The first look was unveiled on Monday and while a release date is not decided yet, the producers are eyeing a Friday towards April-end. Written and directed by ad filmmaker Anand Surapur, The Fakir Of Venice also stars Annu Kapoor and Kamal Sidhu.

Says an insider, “The makers have been trying to get in touch with Farhan for a while but in vain. He may be busy with other commitments, but they are hoping to receive a reply at least.”

Farhan is said to have begun work on his next acting project, Lucknow Central, which is currently being shot in Uttar Pradesh. Adds the source, “The Fakir of Venice got stuck when the producers changed, but the issue has been resolved and the film is ready for release. It is the director’s debut project too.” The film, which is said to be inspired by filmmaker Homi Adajania’s real experiences during his travels, was screened at film festivals.

Producer Punit Desai, however, maintains, “We are in talks for dubbing certain parts and exploring the opportunity for a promotional song with Farhan and A R Rahman.” Director Surapur says, “Farhan and I go back a long way. He has always been supportive of my endeavours.” Strangely, however, Farhan has chosen to remain mum about his own film even as he promotes his colleagues’ works on social media. He was unavailable for comment.