Dinesh Vijan’s much-anticipated biopic on renowned public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam has once again grabbed headlines after a major casting shift. After months of speculation, Aamir Khan—who was earlier attached to the project—has reportedly opted out. Now, all eyes are on Rajkummar Rao, who has emerged as the frontrunner to lead the film.

While Rao shares a strong rapport with Vijan and Maddock Films—he is currently promoting Bhul Chuk Maaf under the same banner—he has yet to officially sign on.

A source close to the development reveals, “Dinesh is keen on having Rajkummar play Nikam. He brings the right intensity and range to the role. Preliminary talks have been positive, but Raj is immersed in prep for Vikramaditya Motwane’s next, which is a physically and emotionally demanding script since he plays a sportsman. The dates will need to be worked out.”

Vijan is now recalibrating timelines and considering a tonal shift for the film.

“It was always going to be a compelling courtroom drama with a political undercurrent, but now the team is exploring a grittier and more grounded treatment that fits Raj’s style more, if he comes on board,” the source adds.

Nikam is known for handling several high-profile cases, including the 1993 Bombay blasts and the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.