Kareena Kapoor is in a dilemma. She had almost signed Aamir Khan's next release to be directed by Reema Kagti. Then came the dates clash.
She has already committed the dates they want to Karan Johar's next production titled Short Term Shaadi, opposite Imran Khan.
Says a source, "Aamir had short-listed three top actresses for his next film Kareena Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra and Katrina Kaif.
If Bebo opts to act with the Bhanja instead of the mama, one of her rivals will step into the part."
Can't afford delays
Both films begin shooting in February 2011. Karan has already postponed Short Term Shaadi for his leading man's asli shaadi, which is happening in January '11.
He can't delay his film anymore because Imran then has to complete shooting remaining portions of YRF's next Mere Brother Ki Dulhan. Now the Kapoor kudi has to choose one of the two films.
Bebo is close to both Karan and Aamir and doesn't want to give up either film. In the past, she had left one of KJo's films due to which their relationship had strained.
She had committed dates for the Dharma production long before the Aamir film came into the picture. Now she is feeling torn, and has withdrawn into a shell as she mulls her next move.
The source adds, "Aamir is currently out of India while Kareena is trying to work out her dates. She has to give him an answer so he can cast the second actress in the film."
Rani, second lead in Aamir's next?
There is another female part in the film, and while names like Katrina Kaif and Priyanka Chopra have been tossed around, one hears that it is Rani Mukerji who has landed the part.
It might be recalled that Rani gave her first hit film Ghulam (1998) with Aamir and they've remained friends since.
The reclusive actress is a regular at the Khan residence, and is always present at all the actor's premieres and events, the last one being the music release of Peepli [Live].
It is learnt that the 'other' part in the AK's next is that of his wife and it is a powerful, performance-oriented role. Aamir feels only the talented Rani can do justice to it. The actress will require to shoot for just 10 days.
If all goes well, then Kareena and Rani will be seen in a film together after 12 years. The actresses who were once friends, then enemies, are now cordial to each other when they meet at filmi gatherings.