For the third time in Indian film history, the famous Sharat Chandra Chattopadhyay story of Devdas is being remade, this time in a whole new light. Yet, even before the modern interpretation by Sudhir Mishra has begun, changes have already ensued.

The script called for Shiney Ahuja to essay the role of Devdas, Laura Dutta to play Paro and Soha Ali Khan to take on the coveted role of Chandramukhi. In the previous films, this role was performed exquisitely by two beautiful and timeless actresses - Vyjayantimala and Madhuri Dixit.

However, Khan has been dropped from the film and will be replaced by an international face. This postpones things until at least March of 2008.

Unlike the two previous versions by Bimal Roy (1955) and Sanjay Leela Bhansali (2001), Mishra’s Devdas is set in the political world. Paro is a simple girl who becomes a shrewd politician. Chandramukhi is an investment banker, rather than a courtesan.

Again it seems that Mishra misses out on working with his favorite actress and says he regrets it but looks forward to make another film with her in the new year.

In the meantime, Mishra’s Khoya Khoya Chand, starring Khan, hits the theatres this Friday - December 7th.