The 28-year-old model-and-actress Zareen Khan stepped in to star in director Sai Kabir's upcoming adventure comedy opposite Irrfan Khan, reportedly because Kangana, 29, was unable to align her own schedule with that of the movie.
Zareen Khan wikipedia
Confirming the news, the director said: "Yes it is true. She fit the bill perfectly as we wanted a girl with Pathani looks."
The news came a day after Sai announced Kangana's departure from the project and teased he had found someone more "suitable" for the role.
He said earlier this week: "Kangana Ranaut is no more a part of my film 'Divine Lovers.' I am launching a new girl opposite the leading man Irrfan Khan. It's going to be a surprise for everyone. The new girl is more suitable for the role. I can't say anything else."
The filmmaker will now oversee Zareen as she undergoes two months of training in preparation for the role.
The movie - which is set in the heartland of India and revolves around the exploits of the lower middle-classes - is due to begin filming in September.
Zareen was last seen on screen in Vishal Pandya's 'Hate Story 3'.
Kangana had previously worked with Sai on 'Revolver Rani' and, at the time, there were reports of them collaborating again on other movie.
But 'Revolver Rani' didn't do well at the box office, and the actress instead went on to find success in 'Queen' and 'Tanu Weds Manu Returns'.
Her and Irrfan's casting in 'Divine Lovers' was announced as far back as 2014.