Priyanka hands over the baton to cousin Parineeti

Given that Sanjay Leela Bhansali Productions is a force to be reckoned, it seems unlikely that the filmmaker would struggle to rope in artistes of his choice for his projects. Yet, the unit of Bhansali's upcoming biopic, Gustakhiyan, has seen multiple alterations in the cast, with rumours suggesting that latest addition Priyanka Chopra has also stepped away from the lead role and handed over the baton to cousin Parineeti.

The film, based on the life of poet Sahir Ludhianvi, was to initially feature Irrfan with Priyanka. But both opted out later, with PeeCee citing her Hollywood commitments as reason. While Irrfan's part in debutante director Jasmeet Reen's film was then offered to Abhishek Bachchan, a source suggests that Bhansali found his leading lady in Parineeti, who will play the protagonist's love interest, renowned poetess Amrita Pritam.

"If Parineeti commits to Gustakhiyan, this film will mark the first outing of Abhishek and Parineeti as a couple. Bhansali is keen to cast her since the role is a defining one. He felt she has the grace and sensitivity to play a poetess," the source says, further adding that the script has appealed to Parineeti, who is figuring the dates. 

Source: mid-day