Mumbai: Filmmaker Sanjay Chhel is paying his tribute to the classic Mughal-e-Azam and has roped in Bollywood’s “drama queen” Mallika Sherawat to do a Madhubala.

But contrary to media reports, Chhel's Maan Gaye Mughal-e-Azam is not a remake of the1960's classic blockbuster.

Chhel says none of the contemporary Indian filmmakers have the ability to do that.

"Its a film about a theatre group and their performances and how they unite and save the country from a big catastrophe. It’s not just a comedy but a comedy with a social cause,” he says.

However, Chhel says some portions of the film is a tribute to the original that had inspiring performances by Prithviraj Kapoor, Dilip Kumar and Madhubala in a tale of tragic romance.

"There is a song in my film - Pyar Kiya To Darna Kya but its entirely different from the original. It’s a tribute to the original, but there is a reference of Salim, Anar Kali and Akbar in it,” he says.

The film boasts of a star cast that includes Paresh Rawal, Kay Kay Menon, Rahul Bose and Mallika Sherawat.

But all eyes will be on Mallika who will dance and lipsync to the legendary lyrics of Jab Pyar Kiya to Darna Kya.

The sultry diva is also looking forward to shedding her bombshell tag as she will mostly don ethnic outfits.

"I will be seen in mostly suits and churidaars in my next film Maan Gaye Mughal-e-Azam. They are all designed by Anita Dongre,” she says.

The film's soundtrack will feature a mix of electronic sounds and contemporary lyrics. The film hits theatres in April 2008.