It looks like Sanjay Leela Bhansali's dream venture is finally about to take off nearly 15 years after it was planned. And while a snippet in Zee News claims that Shah Rukh Khan has bagged the lead role as Bajirao, a source close to Mumbai Mirror states that the female leads have been bagged by Katrina Kaif and Deepika Padukone respectively.​

The epic historical, which is based on the life of Peshwa Bajirao and his ladylove Mastani will most likely be produced by Eros International and roll early next year.

“After Ram Leela releases in October 2013, Bhansali will start with the pre production of Bajirao Mastani. He will begin shooting in April 2014. Eros and Bhansali have had a fabulous working relationship during Ram Leela. Their collaboration on Bajirao Mastani will strengthen their association,” said a source to Mumbai Mirror.

“Apparently, Bhansali has had a word with both Deepika and Katrina. The girls have shown tremendous interest,” says the source. While this could be Katrina’s first film with Bhansali, Deepika is looking forward to her second one with Bhansali. It is unclear as to which of the two actresses will play Mastani and Bajirao’s wife Kashibai in the film.

Bajirao Mastani has been through several casting changes. Initially it was supposed to feature Salman Khan and Aishwarya Rai, post the success of Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999), but Rai was replaced with Kareena Kapoor once news of Salman-Ash splitting up in real life trickled in.​

If these rumours are to be believed, it would be interesting to see how the two ladies get along on the sets, considering what (or who!) they have in common. “All you need now is Ranbir Kapoor coming on board as Bajirao, and you have a Silsila all over again. Bhansali is yet to finalise any actor for Bajirao’s role. Keep watching,” concluded the source.​