Exclusive info on Aamir’s new film:

By Bollywood Hungama -

July 30, 2003 - 12:00 AM IST

A lot has been written and spoken about Ketan Mehta's new project, starring Aamir Khan in the lead. But no one has actually got the official take on one of the most ambitious films of the times. Who'd star in the film, besides Aamir? Will the film be made in Hindi or English or both languages? What would be its budget? Questions, questions... But we at IndiaFM decided to get you the official info on the venture from the person who's been living the project for the last few years Ketan Mehta. Read on and relish... The film, titled THE RISING, will star Aamir Khan, Rani Mukherji and Aishwarya Rai in the lead. Besides starring Indian names, Ketan Mehta is in negotiations with several Hollywood names to enact significant roles. In fact, Mehta has already signed Toby Stephens [who enacted the main negative role in the Bond flick DIE ANOTHER DAY] for a pivotal role. More international names are expected to join the cast shortly. Produced by Manmohan Shetty's Entertainment One, Bobby Bedi's Kaleidoscope Films and Ketan Mehta's Maya Movies, the film will roll in October this year and will be shot in Hindi and English languages simultaneously. "I've been working on the film for the last five years," Ketan Mehta tells me, "It's a dream project." Ask him about the budget of the film and Mehta says that he's yet to decide on it. "The project is getting bigger with each passing day," he smiles, "It would be the most expensive Indian film ever produced." Mehta agrees that it's the right time to start the film, what with films by directors of Indian origin finding global acceptance. "The international market has opened up for Indian film-makers," he states. Quiz him about Aamir Khan's remuneration [reportedly, the makers have paid the actor Rs. 7.5 crores for the film!] and Mehta laughs, "Sshhh..." Well, this is one project worth looking forward to!