Alia Bhatt OPTS OUT of Anand L Rai’s next starring Shah Rukh Khan

Yes, that’s right! Alia Bhatt has chosen to opt out of Anand L Rai’s next. The dwarf film, helmed by the ace film maker starring Shah Rukh Khan as the lead actor, has been in the news lately for it’s leading lady. Recently, rumours mills were abuzz that Deepika was going to be playing the main lead opposite Shah Rukh. However, it was then being said that Alia had REPLACED the leggy lass. And just as we were awaiting confirmation on this story from either Alia or Anand L Rai, it is now reported that she has decided to not do the film. Reason? Date issues. Catchnews quoted a source saying, “After Deepika Padukone opted out, citing date issues, Alia was almost finalised for the film. It was also said that she will be seen playing a dwarf like Shah Rukh Khan in the film. However, now she too has said to have date issues and may not be able to be part of the film.”

A spokesperson from Anand L Rai’s team had earlier clarified saying, “A lot of names have been thrown in but at the moment the female lead has not been finalised. The casting is underway and is taking time as it is a difficult role, in fact one of the most challenging that Aanand has ever worked on. The role needs a lot of prep time as well as shoot time for which a substantial chunk of dates are required. It’s not just about finishing this film but making it.” 
In case if you don’t know, Katrina Kaif has already been signed as one of the leads opposite SRK. Now that neither DP nor Ms Bhatt are apparently going to be a part of the film, we wonder which actress would Anand L Rai approach next. Do you guys have someone on mind? If so, tell us in the comment section below the name of the actress who you think would be apt for the role.