by Subhash K Jha

The raves and waves for Water have still to reach their optimum level. But the film's rapturous director and mobbed leading man have decided to come together again.

Deepa Mehta has decided to sign John Abraham for a key role in her next multi-million epic project Komagata Maru.

Reveals Deepa, "After Water I've realized how professional and pleasant Indian actors can be. John's discipline before during and after Water is exemplary. Here was this actor from an English-speaking background who mastered the Sanskrit words in the dialogues, learnt to play the flute and to wear the dhoti and came on location in Sri Lanka fully prepared.

"I was totally bowled over. As the shooting progressed I realized what a fine performer John was. I think subconsciously I had made up my mind to work with John again even before Water was completed."

John will now play a pivotal role in Deepa's Komagata Maru. Deepa is keen to have Amitabh Bachchan in the central role.

"I think it's very important to have the cast in place. When I close my eyes I see Mr Bachchan and John in Komagata Maru."

Elaborating on the impact John has made on the director personally and on the movie-going public in Toronto after the festival Deepa says, "His goodness of heart shows up on screen and in his real-life conduct. You've no idea how much of an impact John made with his performance. He has mobs of fans of every age and gender running after him."

Deepa regrets her first choice for the two leads in Water didn't work out. "I sincerely wanted Kareena Kapoor for the main lead. I had seen her in Refugee and thought she was the perfect blend of beauty and talent. She's ethereal. I though she would be perfect as Kalyani. I flew down to Mumbai met her with her mom. Kareena seemed so excited.

"Then suddenly I was left with only her secretary to deal with...As for Rahul Khanna, I'm very very fond of him . It's a pity he couldn't do Water. But it was all for the best. Because I can't imagine Water without John and Lisa."

John goes into Komagata Maru as soon as Deepa finishes her script. "Right now we're both enjoying the attention after Water."