BOMBAY TIMES (December 30, 2018)

Earlier this year, Katrina Kaif and Varun Dhawan had announced their first film together — a 3D dance-based film, directed by choreographer-turned-filmmaker Remo D’Sousa, which was scheduled to release on November 8, 2019.

Now, Katrina has decided to opt out of the film. The actress’ team released an official statement yesterday, which read, “Katrina Kaif had to opt out of Remo D’Souza’s upcoming dance film, owing to her hectic schedule for Bharat. Katrina has always been a thorough professional. She decided to step out of the film, as her dates were clashing with Bharat, which she is currently shooting for.”
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DNA (December 30, 2018)

Earlier this year, After Hrs broke the news that Katrina Kaif will share screen space with Varun Dhawan in a 4D dance film to be helmed by Remo D’Souza. This will be the Judwaa 2 actor’s second outing with the choreographer-director after ABCD 2.

Now, we hear, that the Zero actress has opted out of the movie that is slated to go on floors in the first quarter of 2019. While Kat was unavailable for comment, her spokesperson said, “Katrina had to opt out of Remo D’Souza’s upcoming dance film owing to her hectic schedule for Bharat. She has always been a thorough professional. She decided to step out of this film as its dates were clashing with Bharat, which she is shooting for right now.”

Incidentally, the dance film is being produced by T-Series, which is also backing Bharat along with Salman Khan and Atul Agnihotri. A source associated with the movie tells us that around 45 days of shooting that’s left will be completed on a specially-built set in Film City.

When contacted, Bhushan Kumar, Chairman and Managing Director, T-Series, stated that since his company is involved in both films, they came to a mutual agreement. He said, “After considering all aspects, we saw that Katrina won’t be able to accommodate the dance film. Initially, Bharat’s dates were such that she could have easily started the dance flick,” he said, adding, “But now, unfortunately, Bharat has been pushed a little and the team needs a few more days to wrap up the shoot. Also, the dance movie can’t be delayed because we have a big schedule in London this February and the winter season plays an integral part in the storyline. So, that portion can’t be shot at any other time. If that had changed, the movie would’ve been postponed till next winter and that would’ve been too late. And, Katrina has already shot a considerable portion for Bharat.”