Madhur's 'Mahee' with Ashutosh Gowariker!

It was the perfect title for Madhur Bhandarkar's upcoming film starring Kareena Kapoor - Mahee.

The film revolves around the life of a leading lady whose career has already peaked and is on the downslide. But while Madhur is convinced about the title, he is restricted with the alternative title of Heroine. Why? The title is registered with Ashutosh Gowariker.

Had it been any other filmmaker, Madhur would have been more than happy to buy it off, but when it comes to Ashutosh, there's a problem. The two have a history.

A year ago at an awards function, Gowariker had stated that Aishwarya Rai Bachchan deserved the best actress award for his film Jodhaa-Akbar and not Priyanka Chopra for Bhandarkar's Fashion. Bhandarkar was quick to come to Priyanka's defence. He said, "I'm shocked by what Ashutosh said. We're friends and I admire his work. Our wives are also very close. If he felt this way, he should've shared it with me and Priyanka, not spoilt the golden moment for her on stage. Priyanka got every popular award. Doesn't that prove she deserves it?"

It created a chasm that only got wider with time. Says a source, "Madhur's heart is set on Mahee as it aptly captures the essence of the film. But after what happened between him and Ashutosh because of Priyanka, he can't ask for the title."

Incidentally, the source adds that Kareena's character is not directly based on Marilyn Monroe, but is inspired by a handful of Bollywood's legendary actresses like Meena Kumari, Nargis and Madhubala.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/News-Interviews/Madhurs-Mahee-with-Ashutosh/articleshow/5896823.cms

Is she finalized? I look forward to it .

More or less finalized 😊
Madhur tweeted that he'll make an announcement this month or next month I think.