Sidhant Gupta is set to replace Farhan Akhtar in Aamir Khan’s upcoming period sports drama Lalkaara, directed by Ashutosh Gowariker. Farhan has reportedly left the project to focus on his upcoming RD Burman biopic.
According to NDTV, Farhan’s exit stems from scheduling conflicts with the Neeraj Pandey-directed biopic. The actor is expected to spend several months preparing for the role, while Lalkaara requires intensive cricket training and a lengthy shoot. He has therefore stepped away from the film amicably but will remain attached as a producer.
Sidhant, known for Inside Edge, Jubilee, Black Warrant and Freedom at Midnight, has reportedly taken over Farhan’s role. He will play one of Aamir’s close friends. The casting change is not expected to delay production, as the team has already finalised the replacement.
Lalkaara is backed by Excel Entertainment, run by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, along with Rajkumar Hirani Films.
The film centres on the historic 1952 India-Pakistan Test series, exploring friendship, rivalry and national pride during a landmark chapter in Indian cricket.
Aamir will play Lala Amarnath, independent India’s first captain, who led the country in its first Test series against Pakistan after Partition.
The screenplay comes from Piyush Gupta, known for Dangal and Chhichhore, and Neeraj Singh, writer of Nil Battey Sannata.
Lalkaara also reunites Aamir and Gowariker after their 2001 blockbuster Lagaan. Production is scheduled to begin in Mumbai on 1 October.
