Bollywood actors Salman Khan and Alia Bhatt have been roped in for Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Inshallah' and the pairing attracted some flak online given the age difference between the two. While rumours initially suggested that both actors may play siblings, fresh reports reveal that the duo will actually romance in the film. Salman is set to play a 40 year old businessman, and Alia will play an aspiring actor in her 20s.
A source said, “Salman is a businessman in his mid-40. The character is reminiscent of his turn in his 1997 romcom 'Jab Oyar Kisise Hota Hai'. Alia plays a 20-something aspiring actress. All the factors, including age gap, have been taken into consideration. The story will justify the teaming up of two actors, from different generations, on a romantic journey.”
When the film was first announced and fans speculated roles of the two actors, Alia had reacted to the criticism saying, “I didn't get any criticism. I think I got a lot of excitement. I think speculation is also a form of excitement in a way and why shouldn't there be speculation. There should be and at least I am not bothered by that and I don't think Salman or Bhansali sir are bothered. I think this is a filmmaker who has given us very good films, he is someone who we all are very fond of and I think we should just trust him with his vision.”
Shooting for 'Inshallah' begins in September and it may be shot in Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Varanasi, apart from the US. A source informed that Bhansali and his leads will also fly to the US for a major schedule. “The crew was contemplating on several places, including Europe, but settled on the US after several rounds of recce. Salman and Alia will be there in winters.” The movie brings Salman and Bhansali together after two decades, after 'Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam'.
