In 2013, Meera had hoped to star in 'Pakeezah' remake

Pakistani actor had pitched an idea to Kamal Amrohi's son and wanted Sanjay Leela Bhansali to direct the film

The year is 2013 and it's been eight years since Pakistani veteran actor, Meera, has made her Bollywood debut with 2005, Nazar. Fast-forward eight years, the Pakistani actor announces her dream project: a remake of the 1972 Bollywood blockbuster, Pakeezah. Meera, as one would guess, would step into the protagonist, Meena Kumari's shoes for the film, produced by Tajdar Amrohi, filmmaker Kamal Amrohi's son.

Hindustan Times had reported at that time that Meera had presented that idea for a remake and wanted celebrated director, Sanjay Leela Bhansali to helm the film. "It is a divine feeling. I cannot define it in words," Meera had said in a statement.

"I simply loved Meena Kumariji in the film. It has always played again and again in my mind. I came to India with the dream of wanting to essay the same immortal role someday. And when Tajdar Sahab gave the nod, I was simply too overwhelmed," she added.

The movie is still in the conception stage, said Tajdar and added, "Meera had spoken to me about Pakeezah about three-and-half years ago. She is very passionate about doing it. She is like a little child with a dream, so I gave her a nod." He added, "It is not an easy film to make. It is a challenge for Meera. To re-erect the same sets, it would cost 20 times more. The kind of costumes, dialogue, the aura, there are several uphill tasks. It will be a huge thing."

Meera later claimed that she had purchased the rights to the classic. Tajdar, however, denied it. “No no no, I haven’t sold the rights of Pakeezah. My brain is still functioning normally and very well. Maybe I’d commit such a blunder if I go insane,” he was quoted by DNA India.

Bhansali's spokesperson, too, denied working on the project. “Sanjayji has received an SMS from Meera saying she has the rights to the film and would like him to direct it. He was very surprised to hear this since he regards Pakeezah as one of those classic films that can never be remade," the source told DNA India. "There is not a frame in Kamal Amrohi’s work that SLB would dare to touch. Sanjayji excused himself from the offer as he is busy with Ram Leela.”

Recently, reports of Hamid Hussain, a UAE-based producer, remaking the classic had made rounds. Mahira Khan's name has come forth to fill Meena's role.

Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.