Anil Kapoor set to play bade bhaiyya

HitList (September 20) was the first to tell you that Saif Ali Khan had been signed for the Tips film, to be directed by Abbas-Mustan. We were also the ones who broke the news of Fardeen Khan (October 22) joining the cast. Here's another first. Anil Kapoor has been signed for the untitled film. The three heroines have yet to be finalised.

Ramesh Taurani of Tips confirmed signing Anil for the role, "We wanted someone senior to Saif and Fardeen for this role. We spoke to Anil Kapoor and he loved the role and agreed to come on board." The Tips film, penned by Shiraaz Ahmed (Humraaz, Aitraaz), is a story of two brothers who are set to outwit each other. Saif plays Fardeen's older brother.

Unwilling to reveal Kapoor's role Taurani said, "It is too early to give away such an important character. Anil's role is very important to the film. That's all I can say at this point."

Kapoor's new clean shaven (no moustache) look will not be a hindrance to Tauranis. "Anil is looking very smart and young. We quite liked that look," says Ramesh Taurani, adding, "For our film, he will have a new look, though."

We contacted Kapoor, who admitted, "I have given them my nod. The formalities will soon be completed. I am looking forward to working with Abbas-Mustan, this will be my first film with them."

However, Kapoor, too, was tight-lipped about his character. Buzz is, Akshay Kumar was approached for this role. Sources say, "Akshay could not adjust the dates." However, Taurani says, "No. We were talking to Akshay, but for some other film. And we are still talking to him."

The film is slated to be shot in Australia from February. Currently, Abbas-Mustan are busy completing Mukta Arts' 36, China Town (with Akshaye Khanna, Kareena Kapoor, Shahid Kapoor and Upen Patel).