When Vidya Balan met Dalip Singh Rana aka The Great Khali

Khali and Vidya Balan. Pic/PTI

Known for making unusual choices when it comes to her roles, Vidya Balan is now exploring unconventional methods to further the purpose of the brands she endorses. She has teamed up with Dalip Singh Rana, better known as The Great Khali, for an ad deal. The shoot at Film City, Goregaon, proved to be a laugh riot as Vids wondered how "even a big girl like her" could look "so small" in front of the professional wrestler. The duo played to the gallery while posing for snapshots. Khali flaunted his biceps as Vids tried to match him. Khali felt "honoured" to work with Balan. "You are an epitome of humbleness," he posted.

Now, as the industry limps back to normal, filmmakers are revisiting their decisions of cracking deals with OTT giants, and considering cinematic releases instead. Makers of Vidya Balan's Sherni, while indecisive, are also eager to have a summer theatrical release, should favourable conditions prevail.

"While shooting has been completed, post-production work is on in full swing. We are yet to decide on which platform the film will release, but we are targeting a summer release; perhaps in June or July. So far, we plan to release it in theatres, but we will have to see how things pan out. We want the whole world to see it," says producer Vikram Malhotra.

A source adds that the movie, which banks on its imagery, would best be consumed on the big screen. "Given that it touches upon the subject of encroachment of forests, it has been shot in the jungles of Madhya Pradesh to lend it an authentic feel. We also filmed in Bhoot Palasi and Balaghat. It is hence apt for a cinematic release."