The much-talked-about biopic on legendary actress Madhubala is still in the works, with Sanjay Leela Bhansali attached as producer. Reports earlier suggested that Jasmeet K. Reen might direct the film, adding to the buzz around the project.
In recent weeks, several casting rumours have been doing the rounds. Some reports claimed that Aneet Padda had already been locked in for the lead role, while others suggested that Sai Pallavi was also being considered for the iconic part.
However, those speculations have now been addressed by the casting team.
“We haven’t even started yet”
Casting director Mukesh Chhabra recently stepped in to clear the air. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he dismissed the ongoing reports and made it clear that the casting process is still in its very early stages.
He joked about the constant rumours, saying that every day a new name is being “finalised” in the media, even though the team hasn’t officially begun casting yet.
In his post, he made it clear that the process hasn’t even started, indirectly shutting down all claims about confirmed actors for the film.
Ongoing speculation around the lead role
Despite the clarification, industry chatter continues. Earlier reports had even suggested that Kiara Advani was being considered before those rumours were also denied.
An industry insider told Filmfare that Bhansali reportedly wants a relatively fresh face to portray Madhubala, which is why names like Sai Pallavi initially came into discussion. However, nothing has been finalised.
A legacy that demands care
Madhubala remains one of Indian cinema’s most beloved icons, having starred in over 70 films during her career and earning the title of the “Venus of Indian Cinema.”
Even decades after her passing, her legacy continues to captivate audiences. That’s exactly why any biopic on her life carries immense responsibility—and why every detail, especially casting, is being watched so closely.
For now, though, one thing is clear: the film is still very much in its early days, and all casting rumours are just that—rumours.