Husain to cast K. Asif's granddaughter as Anarkali

M.F. Husain plans to cast K. Asif's granddaughter as Anarkali in his version of 'Mughal-e-Azam'. Though it isn't official yet, the announcement might come Saturday in London when Haya turns 18.

'An announcement about Haya playing Anarkali to be directed by the grand old artiste is expected to be made at the party,' said a source.

It should be remembered that Madhubala had played Anarkali in Asif's 1960 magnum opus.

'Interest in the Salim-Anarkali legend has been high ever since the coloured version of 'Mughal-e-Azam' was released three years ago. Casting Haya as Anarkali in Husain saab's film will be another step in reviving classical historical women after Jodha in Ashutosh Gowariker's 'Jodha-Akbar' and Laxmibai in 'Rani Of Jhansi',' added the source.

Husain earlier directed seasoned stars like Madhuri Dixit in 'Gaja Gamini' and Tabu in 'Meenaxi'.