Ranbir Kapoor’s schedule may be packed this year, but the actor has managed to make time to squeeze in one more film. Even as he currently shoots for his next, Abhinav Singh Kashyap’s Besharam, we’ve heard that Ranbir is the surprise addition to the cast of Bombay Talkies (BT) — a film that celebrates 100 years of Indian cinema. It comprises four different short films, each of which has been directed by Karan Johar, Dibakar Banerjee, Anurag Kashyap and Zoya Akhtar. This is the first time that the four prolific directors have come together for a movie.

A source close to the film reveals, “Ranbir is all set to join the cast of BT, which releases on May 1. He is the sutradhar (narrator); his character will tie the four short films into one movie. Bringing him on board was a last-minute decision by the makers, but they believe having him will only add to the charm of the film, which already boasts of quite a few talented actors and directors.”

Talks are still on about how Ranbir’s character will be showcased in the film. “They are yet to decide how his role will be integrated and who will shoot his part. The makers are working on a couple of innovative ideas,” says the source, adding that Ranbir will begin shooting for BT by the end of this month. They will have to wrap up soon as it needs to release in May.”

When contacted, a spokesperson from the film refused to divulge any information, saying, “We are still discussing the details of the movie with Ranbir. It’s very early to comment on the same.”

They have been sutradhars too
Amitabh Bachchan in Bhuvan Shome (1969)
Naseeruddin Shah in Paheli (2005)
SRK in Kismat Konnection (2008)
Jaya Bachchan in Paa (2009)
Salman Khan in OMG! Oh My God (2012)