The rumour mill is buzzing with the reports of Deepika Padukone and Alia Bhatt being the top contenders for Sanjay Leela Bhansali's next. While the 'Rani sa' of Bollywood has worked with SLB in three super hit movies and she's kinda a muse to him now, seems like the director wants to experiment in his next. Yes, if Bollywood Hungama's reports are to believe, the director is keen on casting Alia for his next big project. And after three consecutive hits in Ram Leela, Bajirao Mastani and Padmaavat, it's pretty obvious that he'd like to work with new faces and gives his pairing with Deepika a short wait. Deepika Padukone in Padmaavat, Alia Bhatt in Raazi, Rani Mukerji in Hichki: Celebrating 15 Best Performances By An Actress in a Leading Role in 2018.

As per the same portal, a source close to the Bhansali's office was heard saying, "Nothing is final as yet. But Bhansali is thinking of Alia seriously for his next, although Deepika is his all-time favourite. A change after working with the same Ranveer – Deepika pair in three successive films would be highly recommended.” Deepika Padukone, Alia Bhatt, Tabu and Other Actresses Meet For Rajeev Masand's Round-Table Session 2018 and it Looks Fun! (View Pic).

And if Alia does come on board for this project, it would be a classic example of life coming in a full circle for her. The pretty and so talented actress had auditioned for the director's classic movie, Black. Yea, she was barely 11 years old then. While the role eventually went to some other child artist, the director today wants to work with her and appreciate her talent. Here's hoping their collaboration happens real soon.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 08, 2019 06:01 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).