Alia Bhatt plays a singer in 'Aashiqui 3', confirms Mohit Suri

Alia Bhatt with sister Shaheen

Alia Bhatt with sister Shaheen

For over six months, Alia Bhatt has been cagey about being part of 'Aashiqui 3', despite a confirmation from uncle, producer Mukesh Bhatt and co-star Sidharth Malhotra. But now, director Mohit Suri, who happens to be the actress' cousin, has finally confirmed that Alia will play a singer in the romantic musical.

Speaking to hitlist, Mohit said, "Since it is part of the 'Aashiqui' franchise, Alia is playing a singer." Currently busy with the shoot of 'Half Girlfriend' with Arjun Kapoor and Shraddha Kapoor, the director is yet to decide when 'Aashiqui 3' will go on floors.

For now, he is making minor tweaks to Sidharth's character. The script is being penned by Alia's sister, Shaheen Bhatt. Hence, it's all in the family so far as the Aashiqui franchise is concerned - father Mahesh Bhatt had directed the first 'Aashiqui' (1990), and is the producer of the series itself, Alia has joined in as the star, or lead actor, and the singer, while Shaheen is figuring out the story.

Mohit Suri

Initially, there was talk about Hrithik Roshan and Sonam Kapoor featuring in the third part of 'Aashiqui', but Sid confirmed being paired with Alia in March. There was curiosity around Alia's debut with her home banner, especially teaming up with her rumoured ex flame. But, the actress claimed that she was yet to be offered the project.

This will be the first time that established stars will play the lead roles in the franchise. The earlier two installments saw fairly new faces - Rahul Roy and Anu Agarwal in part one, and Aditya Roy Kapur and Shraddha Kapoor in the second part that released in 2013.