Kriti Sanon out, Athiya Shetty in for Sanjay Dutt's next?

THE ROLE

Siddharth Anand’s next, the tentatively titled Badlaa, starring Sanjay Dutt, is seeking a female lead. It won’t be a romantic lead, though. The girl will play a rebellious runaway daughter, who’s also a boxer. Badlaa requires a young actress who is also slim, athletic and tall as she will be required to do plenty of action scenes with Dutt, says our source.

THE PREDICAMENT

One producer (Zee Studios) wants Kriti Sanon, the other, Kriarj Entertainment, along with Dutt, want Sunil Shetty’s daughter Athiya. Sid’s choice is Kriti (they’ve spoken telephonically, but haven’t met), but it now appears that the director is doing a rethink.

THE REASON

Says a source, “Dutt and Athiya’s dad Sunil are very close, and it is but natural that Sanju would want her to play the female protagonist. She is Dutt’s recommendation. Both the actresses fit the bill for this hardcore action film, but Sanju is very keen to have Athiya on board, as is she.” Meanwhile, there are reports that  Athiya has been training for some hardcore action. This role demands the leading lady to land some kicks and punches.  

THE DEVELOPMENTS

Siddharth hasn’t met either Athiya or Kriti. He was to fly to Budapest to meet Kriti (she’s currently shooting for Raabta there), but the script underwent several changes and he had to stay back.

WHAT NOW? 

“The female lead needs to be finalised within the next 10 days as shooting begins in August and prep work begins from June. In all probability, Athiya will be finalised for the role. It’s an ambitious project and will be shot on a grand scale all over Europe,” concludes the source.