When Akshaye Stepped into Anil’s Shoes

Mumbai, July 07: Anil Kapoor Productions’ Short Kut The Con Is On is all set to release soon. The film is quite a departure from the actor’s first production, which dealt with the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi and his prodigal son.

Anil’s second film as a producer belongs to the comic genre and he has managed to rope in the versatile Akshaye Khanna and Arshad Warsi for the lead roles in the movie. With Akshay being a favourite, there was little doubt that Anil would pick him to star in his production. But as for Arshad’s casting, there is a story behind that. What is not really so well known is the fact that originally Anil was planning to act in the movie. In fact, he was to play the role that Akshaye has portrayed in the movie. As for Arshad, he was a late entrant into the movie. Akshaye was the original choice for his role. But around the time that work on the movie was beginning, Anil was approached by Subhash Ghai for Black & White; also his dates were clashing with Yash Raj’s Tashan. Anil was not keen to postpone Short Kut, hence he decided to opt out of the project. So Akshaye moved to take on Anil’s role, while Arshad was roped in to play the role Akshaye was originally signed for. Of course, both actors are well settled in their roles and it seems to be a good cast on paper. The audience, however, will be the final judge on Friday.

—Agencies