The screen adaptation of Gregory David Roberts' best-selling novel Shantaram has garnered much attention. The film was announced in 2019 and it is yet to go on floors. While an official confirmation is awaited, a report in a leading daily has it that Amitabh Bachchan joined the cast of Apple’s International drama web show. A source close to the development told the daily that Mr. Bachchan who recovered from COVID-19 recently, will likely play the role of crime lord Khader Khan.
For the unversed, Mr. Bachchan was to star in Mira Nair's adaptation of Shantaram in 2007. However, the project was shelved. "Amitabh Bachchan, who was supposed to be part of Nair's film, will be attached to the series. He is likely to play crime lord Khader Khan," the source told.
The source close to Shantaram told that the makers were planning to start shooting this year but due to the pandemic, it has been pushed to 2021. A major chunk of the show will be shot in Dharavi and South Mumbai. "The makers were keen to roll the project in 2020, but had to postpone the plan due to the pandemic. It's a classic Bombay story, so the local production team has been looking for low-risk areas to shoot. It will be largely filmed outdoors instead of on a set," the source added.
Shantaram, directed by Justin Kurzel, stars Radhika Apte, Charlie Hunnam and Richard Roxburgh. Reportedly, Randeep Hooda will also been seen in the show. Shantaram revolves around an Australian fugitive who finds a new life in the slums, bars and underworld of India.
(Source: Mid-Day)