Nayandeep Rakshit (DNA; June 1, 2017)

As one of the sleeper hits of 2016, Happy Bhaag Jayegi made quite an impact. But while the makers are keen on a sequel and a script has been locked, a fresh cast is being sought.

Fresh pair sought
Sonakshi Sinha is expected to step into Diana Penty’s shoes in the sequel, which goes on floors later this year. The makers wanted a fresh lead jodi for their film and had approached Ayushmann Khurrana to star opposite Sona.

Adds our khabroo, “Ayushmann was Aanand’s choice, now that he’s worked with him in Shubh Mangal Savdhaan. He offered the Happy... sequel to Ayushmann.”

Date issue
Unfortunately, as much as the actor was keen on doing the film, he had to say no. His spokesperson confirms that Ayushmann was approached for Happy Bhaag Jayegi 2, but adds, “However he is shooting for Sriram Raghavan’s next directorial and unfortunately, cannot accommodate dates.”