December 1, 2010 (Sampurn Wire):Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali has finally decided to compromise with the choice of his leading lady for his next project Bajirao Mastani. Ashwarya Rai has been Bhansalis muse since they worked together in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam in 1999. The hot pair of Salman Khan and Aishwarya Rai broke up and thus Bhansali had to shelve his plan of making Bajirao Mastani with them.

Now, after so many years when Aishwarya is happily married to Abhishek Bachchan, Bhansali had a hope the Salman may agree to act with Aishwarya. However, it sounded almost impossible considering the distance maintained by the ex-couple. There was a buzz that Abhishek may replace Salman in the film but now things have changed totally and Aishwarya is likely to be replaced by the hot Kareena Kapoor.

According to Bhansali, Bebo is one actress of this time who suits the role best after Aishwarya. So, he has started discussing the project with her but nothing has been finalized it. Salman and Kareena have quite a good chemistry so it works in favor of Bhansali. Salman and Kareena starrer last film Mr & Mrs Khanna did not do well at the Box office but Bajirao Mastani is totally different from that one and has a grandeur historical feel so it may work now. Moreover, its a Sanjay Leela Bhansali film and we cannot expect usual drama from him.

Salman will be cast as Bajirao and Kareena might be seen playing the brave lady Mastani, wife of Peshwa Bajirao. The story of her bravery is famous like that of Jhansi Ki Rani. Mastani used to ride horse and went to the battle field along with her husband to fight against the enemies. Mastani was also known for her love for Bajirao as she is said to have sacrificed her life following the death of her husband. So, it will be a landmark role in Kareenas career if she accepts it.

--Sampurn Wire