Kangana Ranaut Likely In Ishqiya 2

Mumbai: It's confirmed that Vidya Balan is not playing the lead in Ishqiya sequel, the big question as to who will replace her.

According to reports, actor Arshad Warsi, who was seen in the prequel with Vidya and Naseeruddin Shah, is keen on having his Double Dhamaal co-star Kangana Ranaut in it and is pushing filmmakers to cast her.

An industry insider informs, "He has recommended her name to director Abhishek Chaubey and producer Vishal Bharadwaj and Ketan Maroo because he strongly feels that she suits the role and is a perfect femme fatale."

Both the actors worked together for the first time in the recently released Double Dhamaal and bonded big time.

Another source adds, "After rom-com Tanu Weds Manu and comedy Double Dhamaal, Kangana's versatility as an actress has been established. These films have proved the audiences have accepted her. All these factors make her a strong contender for the role."

However, a friend of Kangana says it's not Arshad but the producer and director of the film who have approached her for the sequel.

"Abhishek and Ketan met and gave her a narration. She would love to work with them but she still has to work out her dates. Arshad has nothing to do with it. He got to know about it much later."

Both Kangana and Arshad were unavailable for comment, but we spoke to director Abhishek Chaubey. "We are still writing the script. We haven't even thought about casting yet. Kangana is a fantastic actor. Once the character is formed only then we will know whether she is suited for it or not," he said.