As Farah Khan begins work on her dream project, Happy New Year, the choreographer-turned-director is clear that her film’s leading lady has to be a good actor as well as an exceptional dancer. Happy New Year, which stars actor Shah Rukh Khan, revolves around a bunch of male friends and how circumstances forces these friends to participate in a dance competition. But there’s a problem — none of them are good dancers. The female lead will play the role of a bar dancer, who will help these friends win the World Dance Championship. “For the role of a bar dancer, I need a very good actress who can dance very well and look hot at the same time,” says Farah.

Rumour has it that actors Sonakshi Sinha and Parineeti Chopra are the two names that have popped up for the role, but Farah denies it. “I don’t understand how so many names are floating around for this film. Even I get shocked to see what’s happening. We haven’t approached anyone as yet,” she says.

However, the 47-year-old filmmaker has clarified that she will not go for a newcomer as the heroine for her film. “I don’t think a newcomer will suit this role. Like for Om Shanti Om, I was very sure I want a newcomer but not in this case. I don’t think a newcomer can do it unless it is a Madhuri Dixit type... like how she was in Tezaab someone has to be of that level... which I don’t think is going to happen,” says Farah.