Emraan Hashmi is the first priority for Karan Johar and Ekta Kapoor

(HT)

Ever since Karan Johar and Ekta Kapoor have teamed up with Emraan Hashmi for a film, they have been busy scouting for a leading lady. Initially, reports had suggested that Kareena Kapoor was offered the role, but then she apparently turned it down. Then, for some time, Deepika Padukone had been finalised for the part. Now, we're told that the makers are yet to confirm any actor.
The reason Ekta and Karan are finding it so hard to settle on a name is because they have a strict condition for any actress they approach for this film - she will have to adjust her dates to match Emraan's. The film will be directed by Karan Johar's former assistant director, Akshay Roy.
An industry insider reveals, "It's a mass-oriented film, and Karan and Ekta consider Emraan their trump card. He fits the role perfectly, so they don't want to take any chances when it comes to the casting, which is why they are in no rush to pick the female lead."
The fact that the schedules of most A-list actresses - Deepika, Kareena, Katrina Kaif and Priyanka Chopra - are packed next year also seems to be adding to the delay. "Ekta and Karan want to cast a big name opposite Emraan," adds the insider. As of now, the film is expected to go on the floors by midnext year.
Emraan, meanwhile, has reiterated his commitment to this project by turning down two big offers. The insider claims, "The makers don't want to jeopardise his dates because it would be very unethical on their part. He is a good actor and Ekta is very fond of him."
When contacted, Ekta confirms the story, saying, "Yes, we're going to take Emraan's dates into consideration first, at the time of signing the female lead