This Is Why Ankita Lokhande Did Not Work With Sanjay Leela Bhansali

Manikarnika: The Queen Of Jhansi is slated to release on April 27, 2018

Ankita Lokhande is on cloud 9. The actress is all set to make her Bollywood debut with Manikarnika : The Queen of Jhansi where she will be essaying the role of Jhalkaribai, who was known to have an uncanny resemblance with Rani Lakshmibai. There’s a common folklore, that states that during the battle of the Jhansi fort, she dressed up as the Queen and went onto the battlefield to take charge of the Army. Although it’s not a lead role, the actress is happy as it’s a quite a significant one. However, did you know that she was given an offer by Sanjay Leela Bhansali to act in one of his films. However, things didn’t work out between them as Ankita wasn’t ready. Speaking to Mumbai Mirror, she said, ““I love Sanjay sir and he lauded my talent and urged me not to waste my time. But I missed out on the opportunity.”

The actress has been taking horse riding and sword fighting lessons to slip into the skin of her on screen character. Speaking about the role at great length with the leading tabloid, she said, “People only know Jhalkaribai as a warrior and a replica of Rani Lakshmibai, and that made the role doubly challenging. When I discussed my scenes with Danny sir (Danny Denzongpa), he advised me to do it my way and today I believe she must have been someone like me.” (ALSO READ : Ankita Lokhande Reveals Her Look From Manikarnika: The Queen Of Jhansi And We Are Excited!)

Not only is this Ankita’s first film, but also her first experience working with Kangana Ranaut, who she looks up to greatly. “She’s sweet with me like she is with everyone else on the sets. We’ve practised together and she has helped me many times and also appreciated my scenes and dancing skills. When you are new and someone like Kangana supports you, it really means a lot.” The film is slated to release on April 27, this year.