Amitabh bachchan and akshaye khanna in gumnaam?

The two actors are likely to be seen in director E Niwas’ forthcoming suspense thriller Amitabh Bachchan and Akshaye Khanna Mid last year, there was news of a _Gumnaam _remake being planned.

But soon after, things became uncertain when Pravesh Sippy — son of NN Sippy, producer of the 1965 whodunnit _Gumnaam _(1965) — apparently objected and claimed that he hasn’t sold the

remake rights to anyone. Pravesh reportedly was planning to remake his late father’s hit production.  As a result of this, E Niwas’ film of the same name was delayed. An insider reveals that

the director and his producer Jayantilal Gada had a joint narration about their film with Pravesh. After hearing their subject, set against the backdrop of a reality show, Pravesh was

convinced that it’s not a remake of his late father’s production.  With their movie back on track, Jayantilal confirms, “Yes, I’m planning a film called _Gumnaam _— _The Game of Unknown_.

It’s a murder mystery but with a completely fresh story.” When probed about the legalities involved, he maintains, “Our legal team is handling that. Though our film is also a murder mystery,

it isn’t a remake of NN Sippy’s Gumnaam. We have just used the title, but it’s a different plot altogether.” BIG B AS LEAD E Niwas is very particular about the casting and has already

bounced off the idea to Amitabh Bachchan.  According to our source, “Mr Bachchan has liked the idea. But he has not locked his dates for the film as he is already committed to a few

projects. He’s trying to figure out if he can fit this movie in his date diary.  Everyone’s awaiting his approval because it’s only after his confirmation that the other cast members will be

finalised.” AKSHAYE IN PLACE OF MADHAVAN For the second lead, R Madhavan was the first choice. But a source associated with the movie reveals that things weren’t working out with him. 

Since a good actor was required more than just adding star value, Akshaye Khanna was the next immediate option. The director discussed the subject with the actor who’s picky about his films.

Says our source, “Akshaye has just done _Ittefaq _which was also a suspense thriller, so he’s taking time to give his nod to the project; though he knows he won’t be playing a sleuth in

this one but will be one of the prime suspects.” The finances are also being worked out. SWARA AND SHRIYA ALSO For the female leads, the team has spoken to Swara Bhaskar and Shriya Saran.

“Swara had given her verbal nod when she was first approached for this film. Later, Shriya too confirmed in principle for it,” says the source. Along with them, there will be a few more

characters, but these four are the main players. WHY NO ANNOUNCEMENT? When we asked Jayantilal if they have approached the four actors, he maintained a ‘no comments’ stand. But he added,

“Since it’s a multi-starrer, everyone’s dates are being worked out currently.  E Niwas will take the final call on the casting. We haven’t signed anyone yet, but once everyone is locked, we

will announce the film and go on floors.”