The fate of Irrfan Khan’s and Deepika Padukone’s project with filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj appears slightly uncertain considering the fact that the actor is currently undergoing treatment in the UK after being diagnosed with a neuroendocrine tumour. In fact, after reports of Deepika returning the signing amount of the film to Bhardwaj surfaced, folks seemed to be even more worried.

Bhardwaj, asked about the status of the film that he is supposed to direct, said during an interview with a leading daily that he will wait for Irrfan to recover and return to India, and will only “take a call” on the film thereafter. “No matter whïch film Irrfan chooses to return with, I’ll be happy to have him back. Our cinema needs him,” Bhardwaj told the daily.

Recommended Read: Has Deepika Padukone returned the signing amount of her film with Vishal Bhardwaj?

Deepika was cast opposite Irrfan in the project while the film was put on hold after the actor left for the UK following his diagnosis. Reports, though, suggest that Irrfan is responding well and will begin work soon.

The 32-year-old actress, meanwhile, made headlines on Sunday after she reportedly told Bhardwaj that she will collaborate with him after Irrfan recovers, and thereafter, returned the signing amount.

It is unclear though as to which project Irrfan will “return with” as per Bhardwaj’s diction because if reports are to be believed, the 51-year-old actor will make his comeback on screen with the sequel to his 2017 film Hindi Medium. Makers of the project apparently met Irrfan in London and narrated the script to him following which he agreed.

No official clarification, however, has been provided on this matter. However, Irrfan had informed in August that he will not be able to shoot for the series Gormint (formerly known as Ministry) due to his “ongoing situation”.

Irrfan was last seen in Karwaan. Bhardwaj, meanwhile, is gearing up for the release of his new film Pataakha on September 28.