DNA (May 8, 2017)

A little birdie called to say, “Nobody was surprised when Fatima Sana Sheikh was signed opposite Aamir Khan in Thugs Of Hindostan. While a few top actresses including Deepika Padukone, Shraddha Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and even Vaani Kapoor were in talks to do the film, most of them, save Vaani, weren’t so keen once they heard the fee for the film, especially when Aamir was being given his market price and more. The actresses had loved the script as it revolved around the female protagonist taking revenge but the talks fizzled out when they realised that Aditya Chopra wanted them to sign the film almost for free. There was a discussion whether Vaani or Fatima suited the role better — the latter was Aamir’s choice and the former Adi’s. Eventually Aamir had his way.”