Akshay Kumar to play famous thief?

Akshay Kumar has reportedly signed up to play the mastermind of a famous heist.

The film, to be directed by Neeraj Pandey, centres on a 1987 robbery which saw a gang of criminals dressed as tax officials raiding a famous jewellery shop called The Opera House.

A source told The Times of India: "Neeraj was always sure that he wanted Akshay for the film. That is why he waited for almost three years after A Wednesday.

"Akshay will play the leader of the 26-man army in the film. His character name will interestingly be Mr Kumar.

"With Akshay's Once Upon A Time in Mumbaai 2, Rowdy Rathore and Khiladi 786 releasing next year, this film is just a bonus. Akshay considers himself lucky to be a part of the project."

Kumar's most recent film Speedy Singhs is his first Indo-Canadian venture with his production company.

> Akshay Kumar: 'I knew Speedy Singhs would fail in India'