Will Priyanka Chopra Jonas sign Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heera Mandi? Read exclusive details

Among the many projects that have been close to Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s heart is Heera Mandi. The filmmaker has been contemplating making the film for over two years now. However, each time the film was pushed back for other more pressing projects in hand. Right from the time Bhansali conceptualised the project, there’ve been talks of the film being offered to Priyanka Chopra Jonas. Buzz was that PeeCee was offered the role by Bhansali, but the actress apparently was not keen on portraying the role of a sex-worker. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Preity Zinta, Rani Mukerji and Sonam K Ahuja were also said to have been offered the role.

An industry source reveals that Bhansali has been keen to make the film Heera Mandi for a really long time now. The script is said to be an adaptation of Mayank Austen Soofi’s Sudden Visit to Pakistan. Set in Pakistan, the film chronicles the infamous red light area in the Walled City of Lahore that had spawned the courtesan culture during the Mughal Era, but is now the hub of prostitution. The film was supposed to have an ensemble cast. The source said, “This project was really close to Bhansali’s heart, so while it was put aside for other films that he worked on including Padmaavat and Bajirao Mastani, the script has always been on his mind and he’s waiting for a go-ahead from Priyanka as he is keen on casting her for Heera Mandi.”

Recently, Priyanka did mention on Karan Johar’s talk show Koffee With Karan that she is in talks with Bhansali. But the episode was recorded in January, so wonder if the actress will do it now, since Bhansali has already announced his next film with Salman Khan. Well, let’s wait and watch! Would you want to see Priyanka Chopra Jonas in Heera Mandi? Do let us know in the comments section below. Meanwhile stay tuned to CineBlitz for the latest Bollywood news and updates.