Sanjay Dutt exits 'Son of Sardaar 2' over visa denial
What's the story
Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt has been replaced in the forthcoming film Son of Sardaar 2 due to a rejected UK visa application. The sequel to the 2012 hit Son of Sardaar, featuring Ajay Devgn and Mrunal Thakur, commenced shooting in Scotland on July 24. Unfortunately, Dutt, slated to portray the villain, was unable to join the cast due to visa complications, reported Mid-Day.
Legal troubles
Past conviction led to Dutt's visa rejection
Dutt's visa denial reportedly stems from his previous imprisonment. In April 1993, he was arrested under the TADA and the Arms Act for possession of illegal weapons tied to the 1993 Bombay bombings. The Supreme Court upheld his five-year prison sentence in March 2013, which he completed in 2016 after multiple bails.
Visa struggles
Dutt's history of UK visa denials unveiled
An insider disclosed that this isn't the first time Dutt has encountered difficulties obtaining a UK visa. "Ever since his arrest in 1993, while Sanju has traveled to the US, he has applied for a UK visa multiple times, but never got one," the source revealed. The filming of Son of Sardaar 2 would have marked Dutt's inaugural trip to the UK.
Replacement
Ravi Kishan steps in for Dutt in 'Son of Sardaar'
Upon learning of Dutt's visa denial, Devgn's team swiftly replaced him with Ravi Kishan. Recently lauded for his performance in Laapataa Ladies, Kishan joined the film crew in Scotland on July 25, a day after the shooting commenced.
Contingency measures
Dutt's visa issues won't impact 'Housefull 5' production plans though
Dutt's visa issues have also raised questions about his participation in another upcoming project, Housefull 5, set to film in London this September. However, producer Sajid Nadiadwala has already prepared for this scenario. "Sajid has chosen a wiser route. While the shooting with the cast begins in London, all of Sanju's portions will be filmed in Mumbai. So, there are no issues on that front," the source clarified to Mid-Day.