Prithviraj Bags a Role in Shah Rukh Khan's 'Happy New Year'

Shah Rukh Khan seems to have an interest in teaming up with south actors in his Bollywood films.

After Rajinikanth's guest appearance in "Ra. One", south actors including Sathyaraj and Priya Mani will be seen sharing screen space with SRK in his upcoming film, "Chennai Express."

Another southern star, who is all set to work with Shah Rukh, is Prithviraj. The actor will be seen in SRK's comedy flick, "Happy New Year", directed by Farah Khan. He made his debut in Bollywood with Rani Mukherji's "Aiyyaa". He was also seen in the recently released film, "Aurangzeb".

"I am in a happy state right now as my performance in 'Aurangzeb' was appreciated and people didn't come out saying they saw a South Indian actor. Audience and critics felt I played my part well and this was a huge achievement," Prithviraj told IANS.

"Now for the first time in Bollywood, I will be seen in a comedy film 'Happy New Year.' I am really looking forward to working in this film," he added.

"Happy New Year" is reportedly a situational comedy film. Shah Rukh, who recently underwent a surgery for shoulder injury, is all set to begin shooting for the film in September.

King Khan will soon start the promotions for his upcoming film, "Chennai Express", which will be released in August. After completing the promotional activities for "Chennai Express", the actor will begin work for "Happy New Year" which was initially announced in 2005. The film has faced multiple delays and cast changes over the past few years. Finally, the film will go on floors in September this year.

Earlier, there were reports that Aishwarya Rai Bachchan might play the female lead. Some reports even suggested that Katrina Kaif would be paired with Shah Rukh again after their blockbuster film, "Jab Tak Hain Jaan." However, there is no official word from the makers as to who would be paired opposite King Khan.