Varun & Janhvi in Shashank's espionage thriller before Rannbhoomi

After Hrs was the first to tell you that Shashank Khaitan had put his ambitious project Rannbhoomi on hold and would direct an espionage thriller instead with Varun Dhawan in the lead. Now, we have learnt that Janhvi Kapoor has been zeroed in for the heroine's role. A source says, "Shashank and Karan Johar (who is backing the project) wanted a new jodifor the film. They felt Janhvi would be a perfect fit.

Interestingly, both the actors have worked with Shashank. While Varun has collaborated with him for the Dulhania franchise, Janhvi made her debut this year with Dhadak, under his direction. When we contacted the young filmmaker, he told us, "I'm still writing the script and will be sure about the casting once it's completed. But Varun is definitely on.

A different role for Janhvi

The actor essays the role of a spy in the film, which is being modelled on the highly-acclaimed Bourne series. Several international stunt experts will be roped in to design the action sequences. Janhvi, who played the girl-next-door in Dhadak earlier this year, will be seen in a different avatar. Our source adds, "She will undergo rigorous training and perform some heavy-duty stunts.

Filming begins next year

Varun will start shooting for Remo D'souza's dance flick early next year.

Previously, he had committed dates to Shashank for Rannbhoomi, right after Remo's film. Now, in that span, he will shoot for this actioner. Janhvi has KJo's period drama, Takht, lined up next. Our source tells us, "Takhtgoes on floors around August 2019, so Janhvi is likely to shoot for this Varun-starrer in April-May next year.