Sanjay Leela Bhansali has finalised his leading cast for his next, with his niece Sharmin Segal cast as the female lead in Malaal. The actress, the daughter of Sanjay's sister Bella, will make her debut opposite Meezaan Jaaferi in the Bhansali production.
Trade analyst Taran Adarsh shared the news on social media.
The news of Bhansali launching Javed Jaffery's son, Meezaan, in his upcoming production broke in March earlier this year. However, the production had not yet finalised its female lead.
While the rumours were strong that the Saawariya (2007) director was looking to cast his niece in the leading role, the production house did not issue any confirmation.
Malaal will be directed by Mangesh Hadawale, who previously made Tingya (2008), and produced by Bhansali along with Bhushan Kumar of T-Series. The trailer for Malaal is expected to be launched on 18 May.
In addition to Malaal, Bhansali is also preparing to begin the shoot for the Alia Bhatt and Salman Khan-starrer, Inshallah. This will be the first time Bhansali is teaming up with Khan since Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999). Salman Khan did have a special appearance in Saawariya (2007) which launched Ranbir Kapoor and Sonam Kapoor.
Inshallah will be a co-production between SLB Productions and Salman Khan Films.