How Salman Khan found Notebook's lead

The Salman Khan’s next production stars newcomers Zaheer Iqbal and Pranutan in the lead roles. Zaheer, who hails from a non-filmy background, happens to be the first member from his family to set his foot in Bollywood.  Born and brought up in a family who runs a construction business, Zaheer is all set to mark his B-Town debut with Notebook. The young actor was however exposed to the glamour industry, as his father is one of Salman’s good friends. And it was during a performance at Arpita’s wedding that Salman noticed his acting talents. The star took him under his wings to train him and make him Bollywood ready.

Notebook will be helmed by national award-winning director Nitin Kakkar and will also star yesteryear actress Nutan’s granddaughter Pratunam Bahl. Nitin says “ It’s always interesting to cast fresh faces in a love story. Working with newcomers is a challenge, but they bring their own energy. It’s also a responsibility because you know the audience will be judging them. For that matter, even Zaheer and Pranutan could have started out with a safe film rather than Notebook which many would take up only after establishing themselves.” Zaheer has undergone immense training and has been grooming himself and has undergone grueling sessions to get the perfect look.