Fawad, not Abhay was the first choice for Happy Bhag Jayegi

Momal Sheikh starrer is slated to release on August 19

The makers of Bollywood's cross-border quirky comedy film Happy Bhag Jayegi were planning to cast Pakistani actor Fawad Khan in the role that is eventually being played by Abhay Deol.

Asked if they were contemplating to cast Fawad, producer Krishika Lulla told IANS: "We were contemplating it, but it was a long back. Yes, we did think of him but at that time Fawad was doing something else and his dates were not there."

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Eventually then, Abhay "loved the script", she said.

"He is very choosy about his projects. It's the content that got Abhay and Diana Penty together for the film and we have Pakistani actors also. It was a good experience," added Lulla.

Still from the film.

Abhay will play the character of a Pakistani man. Lulla also feels that while many cross-border films are hard-hitting, Happy Bhag Jayegi will be light-hearted.

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"It's a different kind of film. We are also coming at the right time. After Rustom and Mohenjo Daro, this will be a refreshing light-hearted film."

Starring Momal Sheikh and Ali Fazal,the movie is slated to release on August 19.