Imran opts out of Punit Malhotra's film opp Sonam!

Punit Malhotra, who was chalking out plans for his next venture, was all geared up to repeat the formula which worked for his directorial debut, I Hate Luv Storys. However, we hear that his plans to cast Sonam Kapoor opposite Imran Khan for the Karan Johar production are not likely to materialise. A friend of the director's revealed to Mumbai Mirror that Malhotra is back to square one as far as casting is concerned, as Imran has opted out.

According to the director's friend, Imran wants to focus on his other films, as the dates for Malhotra's project would come into conflict with his other commitments. The director's friend explained, "After the success of I Hate Luv Storys, Punit was extremely keen to cast Imran and Sonam, as he is very close to them. Punit had spoken about the film to the media. In fact, Dharma Productions were about to announce the film. But then, Imran informed Punit and Karan that he would not be able to do the film, citing date issues. However, Punit was very understanding about Imran's decision."

Imran's decision to pull out, however, has come as a major surprise to many in the industry, since I Hate Luv Storys was Imran's first major hit after his debut film Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na. While the actor has opted out of this project, Imran's friend told Mumbai Mirror, "Despite these developments, Imran and Punit are scheduled to do a film together, but later. Imran is currently dedicating his time to Vishal Bharadwaj's film Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola, which goes on floors very soon."

Apparently, Shahid Kapoor is being considered to replace Imran in the film. "If all goes well, this will be Shahid's first film with Dharma Productions, after he had left Kaal at the last minute," added Malhotra's friend.