Kangna to play 'mujra' dancer in new film

Actress Kangna Ranaut is all set to play a nautch girl in the film adaptation of author Vishwas Patil's directorial venture 'Rajjo'.

The film seeks to explore the real-life struggles of women with mujra as their profession and also the changing scenario of Mumbai.

"What appealed to me more was that Kangna has a strong Indian-ness to her that hasn't been exploited in her roles so far. With Rajjo that is exactly what I aim to do. The film looks into the issue of mujra houses that are dying a slow death in today's competitive world of high rises and corruption," Patil said in a statement.

The Sahitya Akademi awardee said he has researched extensively, visiting old mujra houses in Mumbai and Lucknow to learn about the dying art form.

"Old mujra houses are there in south Mumbai, but only 70 are remaining. My assistants have gone across the border to research about them. I even went to Lucknow to have a thorough research."

In preparation for her role, Kangna is training in dance and watching films like 'Umrao Jaan' and 'Pakeezah' to learn the finer nuances of 'mujra'.

"When I heard the script of the film, I knew immediately I wanted to be part of it. People will identify with Rajjo's character and empathize with her struggle," she said.