Akshay Kumar replaces Big B in Komagata Maru

After saying 'No' to Big B, Oscar nominated director Deepa Mehta has signed Akshay Kumar to play the lead in her next film, Komagata Maru.

It was earlier reported in the media that Big B couldn't do the film since it is a Canadian Production and their government expects the actors to have a Canadian citizenship. The film has therefore gone to Akshay Kumar.

Komagata Maru is an epic film based on a true story surrounding the voyage of the ship 'Komagata Maru' from India to Vancouver in the early part of the last century with 376 passengers on board seeking a new life in the promise land.

It is a film of high level government intrigue, duplicity, racism, spying, military engagements, court battles, sedition, and assassination.

It is a journey of one man's courage that challenged the largest empire in the world. Set in the year 1914, the film spans two continents. It bears open the heroism of Gurdit Singh, who dares to have an impossible dream- a life of freedom, equality, and dignity.

The film also depicts the martyrdom of Mewa Singh.

Akshay Kumar has confirmed he will be playing the lead Gurdit Singh, in this collaboration with Deepa Mehta. Talks are also underway with various actors including Hollywood A-listers making this truly an international project.

"This is an extremely important opportunity for me to reveal a significant moment in Canadian history and illustrate the steadfast bravery of the Sikh community who sacrificed so much to help create a more tolerant community within my adopted country, " says award winning director, Deepa Mehta.

Akshay Kumar says, "I'm not used to working with the Oscar nominated directors so it is a great privilege to work with Deepa Mehta.

The subject of this film has moved me, as it is a true representation and a testimony to human struggles for freedom, justice and equality. I want to portray this real life tragedy to the world identifying how injustice was done to innocent people.

It is an hour for me to play one of the bravest Sikhs, Gurdit Singh, in this tragic forgotten moment in history. I salute those brave souls who sacrificed their lives for justice and equality today."

Komagata Maru is a Canadian production being produced by Hamilton-Mehta Production Inc. in association with Akshay Kumar's home production, Hari Om Entertainment.

The film's budget ranges from $ 30-35 million dollars approximate and is currently in pre-production. It will begin full production in September 2009.

The story will be filmed in various locations around the world. The film will be distributed in Canada by Mongrel Media.