Director Priyadarshan admits he had written the female lead of his forthcoming Billo Barber with his favourite actress Tabu in mind, but had to settle for Lara Dutta when Tabu turned the role citing date problems. Priyadarshan and Tabu go back a long time with the duo have done some great films together like Viraasat and Kala Pani. The versatile actress even agreed to do an inconsequential role in Hera Pheri, only for Priyadarshan's sake.

As it is well known, Billo Barber is being produced by superstar Shah Rukh Khan and Priyadarshan was very keen to have Tabu star in the film. But after she opted out, Lara bagged the role. The reason being given is date problems. But there were rumours about Tabu having a problem with Irrfan Khan, who plays the role of Billoo Barber in the movie. The role, which is now being essayed by Lara, is that of a firebrand village girl, who is the wife of Billoo Barber, a character played by Irrfan. The role has shades of Tabu's role in Viraasat. But Lara is sensitive and strong enough to carry off this role with élan. Shah Rukh also stars in the film but not opposite Lara. It is believed that Lara had a few reservations initially when she realised that she was cast opposite Irrfan and not SRK. Lara is extremely conscious of her co-star's status. Earlier, she had refused Anil Kapoor's Short Cut because she was cast opposite Arshad Warsi. But the temptation of being in the same film with SRK seems to have prevailed. She sees this as stepping stone to a film with SRK. Well, we can only wish her all the best.