Kiara Advani or Kriti Sanon: Who will play Meena Kumari
What's the story
The upcoming film Kamal Aur Meena, directed by Siddharth P Malhotra, will depict the tumultuous relationship of late actor Meena Kumari and her filmmaker-husband Kamal Amrohi.
While rumors have it that Kiara Advani and Kriti Sanon are top contenders for the role of Kumari, Malhotra clarified casting decisions haven't been made.
The project was originally planned as a biopic by producer Manish Malhotra with Sanon in the lead but was shelved last year.
Film's focus
'Kamal Aur Meena' to focus on making of 'Pakeezah'
Kamal Aur Meena, which will be produced by Amrohi's grandson Bilal Amrohi, will cover two decades and mostly revolve around the making of the iconic film Pakeezah (1972).
The screenplay and final dialogue draft are being written by lyricist-writer Kausar Munir, who is expected to finish it by the end of February.
A source told Mid-Day that casting for this "emotionally charged story" will be finalized in March.
Casting process
Vidya Balan also a contender for the part
Further, the source stressed that casting Kamal Aur Meena is not as simple as looking the part. "The lead actor needs to portray Meena's poetry, pain, and resilience."
When Mid-Day reached out, Malhotra said, "We have not met any actors, male or female so far."
With Manish's project getting shelved, Sanon's chances looked slim, too. But now it seems, she might be back in the running.
Earlier, there were reports about Vidya Balan being a strong contender for the part.