Khoda pahad nikla(phir se) Deepu's PR

Padukone among actors competing to work with Iranian filmmaker currently recce- ing in Rajasthan

IN 2013 , it was announced that Majid Majidi's next will be set in India. After much delay, the production team of Floating Gardens " as the film is tentatively titled " along with the Iranian filmmaker is finalising locations in 6 aipur. We hear, Deepika Padukone met the film's unit soon after her arrival from The Netherlands after the European Music Awards, and an elaborate look test was done at Dhobi Ghat.

Contrary to rumours that the look test was for a rag picker's part in the film, an insider tells us it's a well fleshed out character who has a humble beginning in life. " But the role definitely isn't that of a rag picker.

She is one of the five actress to have been shortlisted.

Majidi's school of movies isn't so much about an actress' star prowess as much as it is about her fitting the bill. Having said that, two other leading ladies will be auditioning for the part.

There is a famous indie actress, who is neck and neck with Deepika. However, the details of actresses in the race are between the producers and Majidi." Majidi's team is also looking at casting a known male actor, but not necessarily a star. " Actors, who were approached and have auditioned, were made to sign a non- disclosure agreement.

They can't talk till signing of the film," a source says.

Before Majidi leaves India this time, the film's casting will be finalised. " They hope to start rolling by end of 6 anuary ? = > B . The actors will need to block their dates for several months together." The bilingual film [ Hindi and English], to be dubbed in Farsi later, will be shot across Benaras, 6 aipur, Nainital, Delhi, Mumbai and Shimla.