Aneet Padda Not Attached to Star in Madhubala Biopic

Is Aneet Padda on board to play screen icon Madhubala in her biopic? That’s what the internet was abuzz with after speculation emerged that the Saiyaara star had bagged the role in the upcoming film. However, THR India has learnt that this may not be the case.

A media report, citing an unnamed source, stated that Padda had already been finalised for the project and that filming was expected to begin soon, with additional casting details to be announced later.

When The Hollywood Reporter India reached out for confirmation, a Yash Raj Films talent division spokesperson dismissed the claim and stated that the rumours were "untrue". Padda was last seen in her feature debut Saiyaara, opposite Ahaan Pandey. The film became a massive box office success, reviving the romance genre in the theatrical space.

Speculation around the project has circulated for some time. Earlier reports had suggested that actor Kiara Advani was in talks to play the lead role.

The biopic is reportedly being directed by Jasmeet K. Reen, best known for helming the 2022 film Darlings starring Alia Bhatt and Shefali Shah. Further details about the project, including its full cast and production timeline, have not yet been officially announced.

Often called the "Marilyn Monroe of Bollywood" for her timeless beauty and charm, Madhubala is one of India's most celebrated actresses. She began as a child artist in the early 1940s and landed her first lead role in 1942 with Basant directed by Amiya Chakrabarty and co-starring Mumtaz Shanti.

With a career spanning about two decades, Madhubala created a filmography of landmark films including Mahal (1949), Amar (1954), Mr. & Mrs. 55 (1955), Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi (1958), Mughal-e-Azam (1960) and Barsaat Ki Raat (1960), among others. Like Monroe, Madhubala's tumultuous personal life was also the subject of widespread industry conversation.