Mahesh Bhatt not directing Benazir project

Mumbai, Jan 4 (IANS) Mahesh Bhatt has no plans of directing a project on late Pakistani prime minister Benazir Bhutto that will be undertaken in collaboration with Pakistan.

'I'm through with direction. My last film as director was 'Zakhm'. Then I hung up my boots. The page in my life has turned,' said Bhatt.

So what's the truth about the proposed Benazir project?

'I was approached by a lady from Pakistan who wants us (Vishesh Films) to collaborate with them. In principle we're on.'

However, Bhatt thinks it's too early to get into the project.

'The news of the project came from Pakistan. We didn't announce it. We've to get a go-ahead from Benazir's family and her party. The blood is still fresh on the streets. It isn't right to talk about a movie on the slain leader's life at this stage.'

Regarding the crucial question as to who will direct the Benazir project, Mahesh said: 'It would most probably be a Pakistani director. He may bring into the protagonist's character and her surroundings an understanding that we may lack. We at Vishesh Films will back them with our team.'