Rumours have been doing the rounds that former Femina Miss India Ankita Shorey was 'replaced' by Pakistani actressMahira Khan in the upcomingShah Rukh Khan film 'Raees'. Contrary to these claims, the former beauty queen has set the record straight saying that she was "strongly considered" for the part, but as months went by, the makers narrowed in on Mahira. According to reports, although members of the production house and director's team were very impressed with Ankita's performance, they chose Mahira as the role demanded a Pakistani actress at the time.
In an exclusive talk with the Times of India, Ankita said, "The initial talk happened and I was called in for a look test. I feel very fortunate that at some point in time I was at least being strongly considered for such a beautiful film and role. Later after a few months, Mahira came into the picture and rest is history. I totally respect the decision of the makers and I am sure Mahira has done a fab job. It's a beautiful film and deserves a worldwide reach."
Ankita says she heard the news of this alleged 'replacement' when was in Paris for the French European Indian Fashion Week, where she walked the ramp as the showstopper for the grand finale. Speaking about this "assumption" that made its way to tabloids, she says, "I heard about Mahira replacing me for 'Raees' doing the rounds when I was in Paris for my show and started getting calls from journalists questioning that was I removed from the film because I am an Indian and Mahira is a Pakistani girl so they replaced me with her and all sort of upsetting questions were asked so I decided to speak and clear the air. I have never faced something like this before and was disturbed by the questions and assumptions of media so decided to speak on it."
Being the optimist she is, Ankita has taken this unfortunate miss in her stride and looks forward to better opportunities in the future. She says, "It's unfortunate that I lost the opportunity to work with Excel Entertainment and Shah Rukh Khan. It was a close miss, there is always a slip between the cup and the lip, but then there is always a next time too. My best wishes to the entire team of Raees."Read more at:formal evening dresses | short cocktail dresses
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