Over the last few weeks, there have been continued speculations over Hrithik's presence (or the lack of it) in Shekhar Kapur's 'Paani'.

While there has been a continued silence on the part of the makers, what cannot be ignored is the fact that there indeed has been some news 'leaking' to media around Hrithik being a part of 'Paani'.

The news was further ignited just before the release of 'Kites' when it seemed almost certain that Hrithik was the central protagonist of the mega film. What does the man in the hot seat - the director -have to say on that?

"Even then I had chosen not to comment at all", says Shekhar, "I prefer the same stance even now when you are asking me if he is no more a part of the film. When I had not accepted anything to begin with, there is nothing to deny either. Just wait for the final confirmation."

And when can one expect that? "That should be towards the last week of July when things would firm up further", promises Shekhar.

Well, we are waiting for that day to arrive as the formal announcement around 'Paani' is being looked at with bated breath. After all silence from its makers is not quite helping the cause, leading to further doubts, speculations and assumptions.

A hit certainly counts and an absence of that means that there is some rework required for Hrithik starrers all over again, especially after 'Kites'.

Yes, he has a 'Guzaarish' lined up for release this winter but as of now, everything about the Sanjay Leela Bhansali film is in wraps. Also, rumours have it that not all love is lost between the director and the actor, something which would have to be addressed around the release of the film.

All this means that professionally, Hrithik is not quite enjoying the kind of high that he was around the release of 'Jodhaa Akbar' and 'Dhoom 2'.

"Hrithik is a superstar but internationally, he is now required to prove his clout", comments an industry observer, "It has to be closely ascertained if investment of mega bucks on his films, which are set on an international scale is a good idea."