Mahira Khan to be replaced in 'Raees'

Pakistani actress Mahira Khan, who was to star opposite King Khan in Rahul Dholakia's 'Raees', has been removed from the project following the ongoing tension between India and Pakistan.

"It was a very painful decision for producer Ritesh Sidhwani to take. The pressure to replace her had been building up for months. It reached a crescendo after the Uri attacks. It came to a point where it became impossible to shoot with any Pakistani," the DNA quoted a reliable source as saying.

Adding, "People suggested all kinds of solutions to the impasse, including shooting in Dubai. But it didn't seem viable. Now, Mahira has unfortunately been relieved of her duties."

The hunt is now on for a Bollywood actress.

"The Raees team needs to find a new girl in two weeks' time," said the source.

The movie is due for release on the Republic Day weekend.