Priyanka in Fashion, edges out Kareena an

Confirming the news Madhur Bhandarkar tells us, "Yes the lead actresses casting has been done. Priyanka and Kangana will feature in Fashion. It is true that I was approached by big names for this role but I think the one who suited the role perfectly has been selected and nothing much should be read into that." The multiple National Award winning director, adds, "This is my first big film in terms of over all budgeting and canvas, with a budget of Rs 20 crores. We are planning to shoot the film on the actual ramps of Europe. All the happening places of the Fashion industry in Europe like Paris and Milan shall feature in the film."
Our industry source tell us, "When news was out that Madhur had first approached Priyanka for the role, Kareena Kapoor immediately went and met him, expressing her willingness to work with him. At the same time, Bipasha who had worked earlier with Madhur in Corporate (2006) also was behind him to take him as his main lead for Fashion. She had done more professional ramp modeling than Priyanka (who is an ex – Miss India, Miss World) or Kareena and had almost convinced Madhur to sign her for the film. But it seems the UTV's three-film deal with Priyanka has worked to her advantage. Fashion is Madhur's first film with the prestigious banner that has given films like Rang De Basanti, Swades, Metro and are now making Hrithik-Aish starrer, historical, Jodhaa Akbar. He cannot say no to their recommendations at this point," he adds, " Incidentally, all the three actresses, Kareena, Bipasha and Priyanka had been approached by Madhur for Page 3 (2005) but all had turned down his offer."

Fashion, like Madhur's earlier films, Chandni Bar, Page 3, Corporate and Traffic Signal goes deeper into exposing the under belly of an inside world we never knew existed in their respective fields. The film will go on floors in mid-September with a schedule in Mumbai first. The male lead hasn't been signed as of yet.