It was announced that the film Chanda Mama Door Ke would be India’s first ever space film but the project was later shelved due to monetary issues. Sushant Singh Rajput was first roped in to play the lead but now an entertainment portal has reported that Akshay Kumar is all set to star in India’s first astronaut film that will be produced by R Balki, Viacom, and Akshay. The project has also changed hands in the department of direction and production.

The portal reported that Viacom 18 Motion Pictures and Balki’s Hope Productions are collaborating on this venture. The film is supposed to feature Akshay, Vidya Balan and Nimrat Kaur in the lead while two more actresses are being finalized. The portal quoted a source, “Yes Viacom and Balki have come together for a film which will be the first ever Indian movie on astronauts. In fact, the film will be about sending a crew of chosen people to Mars.”

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Reportedly, the said film is yet to be titled, but it will be helmed by Jagan Shakti who has earlier been an associate director on films like PadMan, Holiday, and Akira.

Besides starring in the film Akshay will also be co-producing the film under his banner. However, an official announcement on the developments is eagerly awaited.  Meanwhile, on the work front, Akshay is busy with Kesari which is based on the Battle of Saragarhi. He has also signed Good News opposite Kareena Kapoor Khan. On the other hand, Vidya will be seen essaying the role of NT Rama Rao’s wife in the NTR biopic directed by Krish.