Filmmaker Rajkummar Santoshi, who is known for helming mainstream classics like Ghayal, Andaz Apna Apna and Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani, is all set to helm a film for Aanand L Rai. Yes, you read that right. Earlier today, Trade Analyst took to his micro-blogging site to share the news and wrote, “Now this is BIG NEWS… Rajkumar Santoshi and Aanand L Rai join hands for a film project… Santoshi to direct a film for Aanand’s production outfit Colour Yellow.”
Santoshi, who went out of action after 2013’s Phata Poster Nikla Hero starring Shahid Kapoor and Ileana D’Cruz, is back in action as he has been signed on by Aanand L Rai to helm a drama under his banner, Colour Yellow Productions. In a statement to Mid Day, an insider revealed, “Aanand sir had the outline of a human drama in mind and he couldn’t think of anyone better than Santoshi to direct it. He thought it was a story right up Santoshi’s alley, and one can draw parallels between the storyline and his earlier films like Damini [1993] or Ghayal [1990]. He gave Santoshi a call and a meeting later, the filmmaker was on board.”
Reportedly, Santoshi has given a nod to the film and the team is now busy developing the script. Speaking of the cast for the film, the source further told the daily, “It’s too early to look at the cast. Once the script is ready, Aanand sir and Santoshi will sit down to discuss the stars they’d like to rope in.” adds the source. The film is expected to go on floors later this year and is slated to release by mid-2019.
Meanwhile, confirming his collaboration with Santoshi, Aanand L Rai told the daily, “I have grown watching Rajji’s films and now, working with him is an honour,” while the daily quoted Santoshi as saying, “Aanand and I and have a great connect and mutual admiration for each other’s work. I am happy to take this ambitious project forward with him.” ALSO READ: Shah Rukh Khan’s Recent Pic With His Zero Co-stars Katrina Kaif And Anushka Sharma Makes Us Restless For The Film
On the professional front, Aanand L Rai, who made his mark in Bollywood with films like Tanu Weds Manu and Raanjhanaa, is now gearing up for the release of his upcoming film Zero, starring Shah Rukh Khan, Katrina Kaif and Anushka Sharma. On the other hand, Rajkummar Santoshi, who was earlier reported to helm an ambitious period-drama titled ‘Battle of Saragarhi’ but the project failed to kick off due to budget constraints. However, the 90s top filmmaker, after five long years, is now all set to hit back with his next. Watch this space for further updates.