Kiara Advani Not Cast as Madhubala in Sanjay Leela Bhansali-Produced Biopic, Reports Termed ‘Baseless’

MUMBAI, March 7: Rumours suggesting that Kiara Advani will portray legendary actor Madhubala in an upcoming biopic produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali have been dismissed as “baseless” by an industry source.

Recent media reports had claimed that Kiara Advani had been cast in the lead role in a long-delayed biopic on Madhubala, one of the most iconic stars of Hindi cinema. The reports also suggested that filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali had come on board as the producer of the project.

However, an industry insider clarified that there is no truth to these claims, stating that the reports circulating online are “completely baseless and speculative.” According to the source, no official casting announcement has been made for the project so far.

While the film remains under development, reports indicate that it could be directed by Jasmeet K. Reen. She made her directorial debut with the black comedy drama Darlings, which starred Alia Bhatt, Shefali Shah and Vijay Varma.

Further details about the biopic, including its cast and production timeline, have not yet been officially announced.

On the professional front, Kiara Advani was last seen in War 2, directed by Ayan Mukerji. The film is part of the YRF Spy Universe and featured Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR alongside her.

The film received mixed-to-negative reviews from critics and reportedly underperformed at the box office. Kiara will next appear in Toxic: A FairyTale for GrownUps.

Often regarded as one of the most celebrated actors in Indian cinema, Madhubala began her career as a child artist at the age of eight. She made her debut as a lead actor in Neel Kamal at the age of 14.

She later delivered memorable performances in films such as Mr. & Mrs. ’55, Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi, Howrah Bridge and Kala Pani.

Her most iconic performance came in Mughal-e-Azam alongside Dilip Kumar, which remains one of the most celebrated films in Indian cinema.

Despite her immense success, Madhubala suffered from a congenital heart condition that eventually limited her acting career. She passed away in 1969 at the age of 36, leaving behind a timeless legacy in Hindi cinema.