Director Priyadarshan admits he had written the female role of his forthcoming "Billo Barber" with beloved actress Tabu in mind but had to settle for Lara Dutta instead due to date problems.
Priyadarshan and Tabu have done great work together in films like "Viraasat" and "Kala Pani". The multitalented actress even agreed to do an insignificant role in "Hera Pheri" only for Priyadarshan's sake.

"Billo Barber" is being produced by superstar Shah Rukh Khan and Priyadarshan wanted Tabu to star in it. But after she opted out, Lara got the role.

Said Priyadarshan: "It's a role of a full-on firebrand village girl. And it's patterned on Tabu's role in my 'Viraasat'. I've to admit I think of Tabu for every female lead. But Lara is sensitive and strong enough to carry this role off with élan."

He said that Lara plays the wife of a barber, acted by Irrfan Khan.

"Though the character belongs to a higher caste, she defies social norms and the diktats of the village to marry a barber. Lara's sophisticated image hasn't come in the way of her performance at all. She'll shock you," said Priyadarshan.

Shah Rukh also stars in "Billo Barber", but not opposite Lara.