Saif to play the lead in Bhagat’s film adaptation of ‘2 States’

Spicezee Bureau

Mumbai: Chetan Bhagat, the popular Indian author who ran into a murky controversy with filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani over blockbuster ‘3 Idiots'; is a happy man these days. The writer, who was embroiled in a copyright war with Hirani, has once again wooed the imagination of an acclaimed director, Siddharth Anand, for the movie adaptation of his book ‘2 States’. And it is none other than Saif Ali Khan who is playing the role of a protagonist in this venture. Buzz has it that unlike last time where Bhagat kept calling foul after he accused Hirani of copying his novel ‘Five Point Someone’ without giving him due credit, this time Anand has bought the rights of ‘2 States’ from Bhagat. As per reports, it was Aditya Chopra's idea that Anand make a film on Bhagat’s novel. And considering that the book is set in India, Anand will have to shoot this one entirely in India. Confirming the news, Anand told a daily, “Yes I am making a film on the novel 2 States, which is a contemporary comedy and has been a huge success. It is a good departure for me, since the film will be made in India. My other four films were made using foreign locations.” Talking as to why he chose this particular novel, Anand said, “I bought the book and instantly fell in love with it. After that I got in touch with Chetan, who was already negotiating with many filmmakers on the rights for the book. Chetan and I connected instantly and I am fortunate that he gave me the rights.” As for Saif, Anand said, “It will also be Saif’s next film after Agent Vinod and my fifth film, which we intend to start early next year. Sajid Nadiadwala will produce the film. I am going to be as true to the book as possible but there will be changes. We will be shooting all over India, including Delhi, Ahmadabad and Goa.”