Salman Khan, Parineeti Chopra
Parineeti and Salman to pair up for the third instalment of a famous franchise? Pictured: Salman Khan at a Marathi film trailer launch; Parineeti Chopra at a product launch.Varinder Chawla

Arbaaz Khan's "Dabangg 3" will hit the pre-production stage soon, but before that happens, the lead actress needs to be finalised. Sonakshi Sinha is out, and from what has been reported, she may have been replaced by Parineeti Chopra.

"Arbaaz (Khan, producer) of Dabangg 3 feels that Parineeti would be suitable for Rajjo's role (played by Sonakshi in the previous two instalments). He will approach her very soon," a source told SpotboyE.

A few days ago, there were reports that Parineeti has been sending "feelers" to the superstar to grab a role opposite him, but turns out it is untrue. Talking to the Hindustan Times, the actress said she is eager to work with the "Sultan" actor, but she has definitely not sent him messages about it.

"I read one such story. It's funny because I have not met him in the longest time. Of course, I would love to do a film with Salman. Who wouldn't? But the fact that I am trying to meet him is laughable. I think such stories are written about every actor in Bollywood. All of us are constantly discussing stories about each other. These reports come out of nowhere," she further elaborated.

Why is Sonakshi not part of "Dabangg 3"?

Rajjo (Sonakshi) plays wife to Chulbul Pandey (Salman) in the two parts that have released so far. The third installment has much to do with Chulbul's younger days (it will be a prequel of sorts), which could be a reason why Sonakshi isn't being considered for the project. While this is a logical answer, rumours have it that Salman has been miffed with Sonakshi for turning down brother Arbaaz's "Dolly Ki Doli" and therefore doesn't want her in the franchise. 

However, all of this is a mere speculation and a official announcement is awaited.