Deepika to replace Asin in period film

Deepika Padukone is to replace Asin Thottumkal in a historical drama co-starring Abhishek Bachchan.

The actress reportedly "grabbed" the part in Ashutosh Gowarikar's Khelenge Hum Jee Jaan after Thottumkal dropped out.

A source told Mumbai Mirror: "Ashutosh considered Genelia D'Souza, Sonam Kapoor and Deepika Padukone. But it was Deepika who landed the role.

"For the first time, she is paired with Abhishek and is very excited to be working in a period film.

"Deepika has already started preparing for her role."

Thottumkal apparently rejected the part because she felt it was not "substantial" enough.