Akshay Kumar roped in for Dostana 2?

Akshay Kumar and Karan Johar; (right) Kartik Aaryan

If the industry grapevine is to be believed, Akshay Kumar has been roped in for Dostana 2. It is said that buddy producer Karan Johar was keen that Khiladi step in. Last week, Collin D'Cunha's directorial venture was in the news after Kartik Aaryan was dropped from the film, starring Janhvi Kapoor and television actor Lakshya. Considering Kumar has several films lined up, including Ram Setu and Bachchan Pandey, he will have to squeeze in Dostana 2 in his busy date diary.

Earlier, without taking any names, Dharma Productions issued a statement about Kartik's replacement in the film. "Due to professional circumstances, on which we have decided to maintain a dignified silence - we will be recasting 'Dostana 2', directed by Collin D'Cunha. Please wait for the official announcement soon," the statement from Dharma read.

Kartik Aaryan rose to fame with 2011 film Pyaar Ka Punchnama and later featured in films such as Luka Chupppi, Pati Patni Aur Woh and Love Aaj Kal. His upcoming films are Dhamaka and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2.

Kartik has kept mum on the entire development. However, he shared a black and white picture of him, wearing a mask.

Fans were delighted to see his post, finally after the casting row.