Actor to play a 17th century warrior in 'Magadheera' remake

After pulling off an affable Sardarji in Rocket Salesman Of The Year and attempting a rock guitarist in Rockstar, Ranbir Kapoor now moves on to playing a 17th century a warrior in the Hindi remake of the 2009 Telugu blockbuster Magadheera.

The director of the original S S Rajamouli has been retained for the R 90 crore reboot. With reincarnation as the central theme, it is set in contemporary times and in medieval times as well.

It features RK in his first-ever double role. The actor is expected to train in sword-fighting and at least three strains of martial arts for the part.

Ghajini producer Madhu Manthena will produce the Hindi remake.

Says an insider, "The Hindi remake required a sinewy yet lean look and a sombre persona and a fantastic actor who could look convincing in both avatars. Ranbir was the only choice for the role. Only he fitted the bill."

The source continues, "Ranbir was floored by the concept of the warrior in the Mughal dynasty. He has never done a costume drama before. As a child, his favourite film used to be a fantasy film called Rani Aur Lalparee.

Ranbir watched the film umpteen times as a child. He now gets a chance to live out an old-world fantasy."

While Ranbir remained unavailable for comment, producer Madhu says, "At the moment, it is too early to comment."