/> Contrary to speculation and rumours that the Big B has expressed a desire to be directed by Aamir Khan, the fact is no commitment, verbal or otherwise has been made regarding any film bringing the two actors together.

According to excited reports the Big B at the premiere of Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na expressed a desire to be directed by Aamir.

No such exchange ever happened. Says the Big B, "I've no idea about this. And if sections of the media in Mumbai are talking about such a collaboration then they know something that I don't."

A source has even more to say on this imagined collaboration. "Such talks are embarrassing to both Mr Bachchan and Mr Khan.

Firstly because both think the other is desirous of getting together with the other and is therefore reluctant to refute the rumour....Not when Mr Bachchan gracefully went to Aamir's nephew's premiere as a goodwill gesture.

Now everyone is trying to read unintended meanings into a sweet social gesture from the industry's most respected actor to another. Secondly Aamir has no intention of directing a film in the near future.

Taare Zameen Par was a project that just happened to him. At that point of time too he wasn't interested in turning director. Now he will focus on acting alone."

The Bachchan-Khan collaboration rumours are embarrassing to both on another count.

Four years ago Aamir was committed to act in film to be produced by AB Corp Ltd which Aamir's cousin Mansoor Khan was to direct. But then Mansoor gave up filmmaking.

And Aamir moved on.

Today it seems unlikely if not entirely impossible for the AB and AK to come together.

"Not that there's any lack of mutual respect, " adds the source. "Both the parties respect the space that the other occupies. But working together? That seems a little far-fetched."