After Alia Bhatt Rejects Piharwa, Director Resul Pookutty Struggles To Find His Heroine

In 2021, Producer Avi Soni announced his ambitious maiden venture Piharwa that is based on the life of Baba Harbhajan Singh, ex Indian Army officer, who is believed to be still alive. It is said that his soul exists at Nathula border, the China-Tibbet border to protect our country.

Earlier, Jyoti Kapur Das made a short film based on the similar subject titled Plus Minus that starred Divya Dutta and Bhuvan Bam. Producer Avi had earlier approached Jyoti to direct the feature too but things fell apart between the two and the film went to Resul Pookutty’s kitty. 

Resul had approached Alia Bhatt to play the lead but it was learned that the actress turned down the film due to date issues. Apparently, around that time, Alia had given dates to wrap few portions of Brahmastra- part 1.

A close source to the producer tells, “After Alia turned down the film, the film was put on a back burner. In a recent development, it is now being learnt that Resul has planned to revive the project and is now looking for a new female lead.”

“Resul along with Avi has met a few A-list heroines but things didn’t work out as yet. Until the female lead isn’t locked, they won’t announce the project. The film is to be shot at Nathula pass,” the source adds.

The source further adds, “Resul has been trying to direct a film since ages but not been able to do so. Looks like, if this project couldn’t take off, it seems a far fetched dream for him to direct.”