Arjun Rampal will be back onscreen opposite Shah Rukh Khan in forthcoming gaming/superhero flick Ra.One – despite reports that suggested Vivek Oberoi was to take his place.
An ongoing back problem had jeopardised Arjun’s role in the film, with Vivek Oberoi widely reported as the most likely replacement. However, a source close to the project has confirmed that after persisting with a treatment regimen of medication and therapy, Arjun is ready to go.
According to a source: “It’s true that Vivek Oberoi had auditioned for the role and was being considered as a back-up candidate. But things seem to be going well with Arjun.” Vivek’s bad luck is good news for Arjun, who was reportedly always the first choice to play Shah Rukh’s adversary in Ra.One, the second time he will appear in such a role following 2007’s Om Shanti Om. As the source confirms: “Arjun was always the original choice to play the villain. Director Anubhav Sinha was very keen to have only Arjun because he perfectly suited the role and his persona is exactly what the director was looking for. His back problem was the only hurdle.”
Though Arjun will be expected to perform a couple of stunts for the film, director Anubhav Sinha will be able to use special effects and technology to aid Arjun’s physical performance as treatment for his back problem is ongoing.
