Salman Khan books Eid 2019 for a film titled ‘Bharat’

Salman Khan is currently busy with the shoot of ‘Tiger Zinda Hai’ in Greece and is slated to hit the screens on December 22, 2017. The actor also has ‘Race 3’ in his kitty which will be releasing on Eid 2018. But if you thought the actor is takign it easy then you are in for some big news as Salman has booked Eid 2019, 2 years in advance. The actor will be starring in the Hindi adaptation of 2014 Korean movie, ‘Ode To My Father’. The Hindi movie is titled as ‘Bharat’.

The movie will be produced by Salman’s brother-in-law, Atul Agnihotri and will be directed by Ali Abbas Zafar. ‘Bharat’ will be a period film that starts from 1947 and ends in 2000. The movie will go on floors in April next year.

Talking about the movie, Atul said, “That film is just the starting point for ours but since it was an inspiration, we wanted in all fairness to officially own it and acquired the remake rights before going ahead with ‘Bharat’.” He added, “It starts in 1947 and ends in 2000 and is the journey of a country and also a person, both of whom go by the name of Bharat.”

The actor-turned-filmmaker also revealed about his conversation with his father-in-law, scriptwriter Salim Khan, on getting the remake rights of the film. Atul said, “He pointed out that an examiner doesn’t gives marks for handwriting, he gives marks for content, and if you can find the content, it ups the odds of getting things right. That’s how it all started and now with Ali on board, the prep is on in full swing.”

Talking about why he doesn’t want to direct the film, Atul said, “I feel I contribute better as a producer. Ali is a friend, I love his work and eventually it’s all about connecting with the source. If you speak to him, you will realise that Ali is far more passionate about the material.”

Revealing about where the shooting will take place, the filmmaker said, “We will be shooting in Abu Dhabi and Spain, besides Punjab and Delhi. Prep in every department will be elaborate and is happening even as we speak. Casting will be our main agenda over the next three months and since it’s a character-driven story, we will take actors who fit the parts. It won’t be about getting names together but will be honest in its depiction.”

Atul also revealed that he has roped in Salman because of his long association with his him as an actor, producer and director, apart form being family of course. He said, “Bharat a character that I thought would resonate with him. It’s a huge responsibility making a film with Salman as there are big expectations that come with the job.”

He also reasoned why they are releasing the film on Eid. Atul said, “I’m very conscious about Salman’s fan base and what they want. And once again, I’m convinced that being a family film ‘Bharat’ is worthy of coming during the festive time. Anyway, an Eid release is always every producer’s preferred choice.”

Well, now let’s see which actress will be seen opposite Salman in the movie. (Also Read: ‘Mazak chal raha hai?’ Salman reacts to Dhinchak Pooja’s songs on ‘Bigg Boss 11’)

Murtuza Iqbal

‘Eat Sleep Bollywood Repeat’ is his life Mantra. Dance is his first love and Rani Mukerji is his eternal crush. He is someone who loves being himself, and as for the ones who don’t agree, his reply? “Talk to my hand!”