Deepika Padukone has been Sanjay Leela Bhansali's muse in the past. The actress did Goliyon Ki Rasleela Ram-Leela (2013) and Bajirao Mastani (2015) with the filmmaker. After wrapping up Gangubai Kathiawadi with Alia Bhatt, he will start working on another ambitious project- Baiju Bawra. While the cast of the film is yet to be announced, an entertainment portal's report claims that Bhansali is in advanced talks with Deepika Padukone for the role of dacoit queen, Roopmati.
A source close to the development told the portal that Deepika and Bhansali had multiple meetings in the past to discuss Baiju Bawra and the character. It is being said that the filmmaker wants the actress on board and is clear about it. "Ever since Bhansali decided to revisit Baiju Bawra, he was clear on getting Deepika on board the film to play the role of dacoit queen, Roopmati, from the 1952 original. Both Deepika and SLB have done multiple meetings to discuss the film and the character and the talks are in the advanced stage at the moment. The paperwork is yet to be done and things will be locked once both the stakeholders mutually agree on certain aspects. Given the way things are proceeding at the moment, it's going to be a yes from DP," the source told.
The source added that the announcement will be made when Bhansali locks his dream cast. "While Bhansali is currently working on the edit and post production of Gangubai, there is a team in his work place that taking tiny steps in the prep work of Baiju Bawra. Conversations with other actors, who are expected to be a part of the film is also in progress. An official announcement will be made once the entire cast that SLB wants is locked," the source said.
Baiju Bawra was announced on October 27, 2019. It is said to be the remake of 1952’s classic starring Bharat Bhushan and Meena Kumari in the lead. The film was directed by Vijay Bhatt. The film, a musical was the second biggest grosser of the year and the eighth biggest hits of the 50s.
(Source: Pinkvilla)