Nayandeep Rakshit (DNA; October 9, 2018)

Earlier this year, it was announced that Arjun Kapoor, Kriti Sanon and Sanjay Dutt will team up for Ashutosh Gowariker’s mega-budget war drama Panipat. Now, the team has a fresh addition to the cast — veteran actress Padmini Kolhapure.

Our source reveals, “Padmini has been roped in for the role of Gopika Bai, Sadashiv Rao’s (Arjun Kapoor) sister-in-law.” Gopika Bai was the daughter of Bhikaji Naik Raste of Wai and was married to Nana Saheb Peshwa (the son of Bajirao and Kashibai). Her childhood was consumed by the observance of religious fasting and rituals. On becoming Nana Saheb’s wife, her extreme self-interest to secure her family’s position became both her strength as well as her weakness. She wanted to ensure that her son Vishwas Rao became the next Peshwa.

Producer Sunita Gowariker said, “I feel excited that Padmini has joined this cast. She is not only a dear friend but also a good actress. She is perfect for the role.”