Radhika Apte to join Saif Ali Khan in Baazaar?

Radhika Apte could be the newest addition to Nikkhil Advani's Baazaar. The makers released the first look of the Saif Ali Khan starrer recently, with Khan dressed up as a greying, scheming businessman.

The film, which sees Khan play a ruthless businessman, also marks the debut of late actor Vinod Mehra's son, Rohan Mehra.

Recent reports have suggested that Radhika Apte will be joining the cast as the female lead. A report by a daily tabloid, Mid-Day, quoted the producer Madhu Bhojwani as saying, "It is a performance-oriented character and we wanted someone who could take the audience by surprise. Keeping that in mind, we thought Radhika fits the bill. She is a fine actress."

However, there is no confirmation over whether Apte has been cast opposite Khan or Mehra in the film. Bhojwani was quoted as saying, "All I can say is that she has an important and interesting role, which the audience will enjoy." The producer added that the film will start shooting next week, and is expected to be ready for release by December.

Apte, known for her powerful performances, is currently shooting in Delhi for R Balki's Padman. The actress plays the wife of the social entrepreneur on whom Akshay Kumar's character is based. She was spotted, along with co-stars Akshay Kumar and Sonam Kapoor at the Indira Gandhi Airport in Delhi and the IIT campus recently. However, the Padman schedule is expected to end by this month, leaving the actress free to join the team of Baazaar.

Baazaar is directed by Advani, and is produced by Kyta Productions.