Anurag Kashyap to cast Rahul Bhat in next project

The flick, whose title is not yet decided, will be jointly produced by Shahnaab Alam and Anurag Kashyap and will go on the floors soon, sources said. Anurag decided to cast Rahul (not Mahesh Bhat's son) because of the actor's understanding of the character, they said.

The director wanted to make the flick, which is set in the backdrop of the metropolis, since long and was looking for an actor who could essay the role in a way he envisioned.

After several interactions with Rahul, Anurag decided to cast him for the role because of the actor's understanding of the character. "I have known Rahul since my struggle days when we lived next door to each other. I only discovered his potential much later after I started interacting with him. His (Rahul's) life experience is quite close to the character I am writing for this thriller," Anurag said.

Rahul said "I am delighted to be a part of Anurag's next and definitely gearing up for the silver screen after my time off. I am looking forward to work on Anurag's style of cinema." Model turned actor Rahul has featured in television serials like Heena and films like Yeh Mohabattein and Nayee Padosan. He turned television producer in 2009 with the serial Tum Dena Saath Mera aired on DD-1.

Meanwhile, there are indications that Australian director Bill Bennett is also considering Rahul Bhat for his next film which is to be shot principally in India. Bill Bennett has already met Rahul a few times, sources said.