Sameera Reddy kept away from the shoot of an item song apparently to avoid a run-in with Mallika Sherawat who replaced her to do the pivotal act in the track

Sameera Reddy went missing from the shoot of her upcoming movie. She was required to be present during an item number being filmed on Mallika Sherawat. Reason? She did not want a run in with Madam M as initially it was Sam who was to perform.

Along with the rest of the cast, Sameera was to make an appearance in the song set in a bar. While Ajay Devgn, Zayed Khan and the rest were present, she was conspicuous by her absence.

The item number had created more buzz even before the shoot had begun. Mallika was the choice of the producer even though the director was keen to film it on Sameera who was the original choice.

After a great deal of consternation, the producer's word prevailed and Mallika shot for it last week at Filmistan Studios.

Says a source, "It was clear that Sameera wanted to avoid any awkward moments. She did not want to be present during the filming of the track.

A lot had been written about her and Mallika. As a result, she preferred not to come face-to-face with her."

Adds the source, "It was a case of plain insecurity. She just did not want to be around during the track with the rest of the cast."

Interestingly during the shoot even the director was not present with the producer and the choreographer only calling the shots.

Continues the source, "The item song created a divide between the maker of the movie and the director."

As reported, 'For old times' sake' (Hitlist, February 24), Mallika had agreed to perform the item number even though other names were tossed around because of her old rapport with the producer.

As he had helped her in her project Hisss, she was keen to return the favour.