In 2018, there was much talk about Aishwarya Rai Bachchan headlining Jasmine, a surrogacy drama. Popular writer-duo Siddharth Singh and Garima Wahal, whose resume includes hits Ram-Leela (2013) and Toilet: Ek Prem Katha (2017), were to make their directorial debut with the movie.

However, it was soon reported that Rai had bowed out of the project, post which it was put on hold. Three years on, Siddharth-Garima are ready to revisit the story, now rechristened Dukaan. Monika Panwar, better known as Gudiya from Netflix series Jamtara: Sabka Number Ayega, will headline the film.

A source reveals, “Siddharth-Garima have woven a new narrative, taking the central idea of Jasmine. While mainstream films like Mimi have delved into the subject of surrogacy, this movie will tell the story from a fresh gaze.”

Sikandar Kher, who was recently seen in the second season of Aarya, has been roped in as the leading man. The film will kick off next month in Gujarat where the story is set. “Monika and Sikandar have started prepping for their roles,” adds the source.