Sushant Singh Rajput replaces Hrithik in Paani

The hunt for the male lead in Paani is over. Close on the heels of his good performance in Shuddh Desi Romance, both Shekhar Kapur and Aditya Chopra have confirmed Sushant Singh Rajput to play the lead in their next film together - Paani.

Speaking about the actor, director Shekhar Kapur said, "Sushant is one of the most inspiring young actors to emerge out of India. It's going to be an exciting director-actor collaboration with him on Paani."

The film is based in a future world where wars over water have broken out. Water is now owned by International Corporations who use thirst as a weapon of control. In one such future city, a young love story breaks all the rules and in the ensuing war, water flows back to its people. The film will have a strong Indian and Western star cast. Rajput will be joined by a young leading actress from the West.

The film, produced by Aditya Chopra and Directed by Shekhar Kapur, will be shot in India and overseas. The music of the film is by AR Rahman and it will go on floors mid-2014.