Confirmed! Varun Dhawan and Alia Bhatt sign the dotted line for 'Shuddhi'

Mumbai: One of the most talked about films has finally found its lead cast. That’s right, Dharma Productions’ big budget film which will be helmed by director Karan Malhotra will feature Varun Dhawan and Alia Bhatt in the lead roles.

The film first made headlines when it was reported that Hrithik Roshan and Kareena Kapoor Khan were signed for the film. However both stars opted out of the project due to prior commitments.

There were even reports of Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone being approached for the much-talked about film. But the real-life couple had already decided to allot their dates to Sanjay Leela Bhansali for ‘Bajirao Mastani’, which they are currently working on.

Karan Johar even announced that Salman Khan would take the lead for the film. But it turns out the casting has changed and Alia and Varun will be seen in the film. Karan took to Twitter on Thursday evening to announce the big news. He tweeted:

And finally..SHUDDHI starring VARUN DHAWAN and ALIA BHATT...directed by KARAN MALHOTRA..@Varun_dvn @aliaa08 @karanmalhotra21 @DharmaMovies

— Karan Johar (@karanjohar) May 21, 2015

Even Salman Khan congratulated Varun Dhawan on the big news.

Kamaal karte ho Varun Dhawan...made ur dad n me so proud of u... happy Shhuddhi pic.twitter.com/DfQtSEqcpo

— Salman Khan (@BeingSalmanKhan) May 21, 2015