It’s a battle between Anita Hassanandani and Gauri Pradhan. No, this is no catfight. Rather, both the actors are apparently strong contenders for the role of Draupadi in Ekta Kapoor’s Mahabharata.

 When it comes to Draupadi, Balaji Telefilms first thought of Gauri Pradhan. Reason? Apart from her acting skills, Gauri has been associated with Balaji for a long time and has been faithful to the production house. “She has been approached, and she is considering the role. Though, she hasn’t said yes she is  keen to play the role of Paanchali (another name for Draupadi, which means the wife of five husbands),” says a source.

The creative team is also considering another actress for the role—Anita Hassanandani. “She has been one of  Ekta Kapoor’s blue-eyed girls and is a good actress. Though they are considering her, she has not been approached yet,” adds another source.

Needless to say, Anita is quite clueless about the entire development. “No, I have not been approached. So, obviously I am not doing Mahabharata for the moment,” Anita says.

“Draupadi is a strong character, as she holds her own in front of the Kauravas. So, we want a good actress, and both are good options. We also want to play it safe, so that we have an alternative if one backs out at the last moment. If both of them agree to do the role, Ekta will take the final decision,” says the source.
Gauri, despite repeated attempts was not available for comment.

Incidentally, Rupa Ganguly played Draupadi in Ravi Chopra’s Mahabharata.