Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Varun Dhawan
Why did Aishwarya Rai Bachchan turn down 'Badlapur' opposite Varun DhawanReuters/ Varinder Chawla

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has had enough time on her hands to read, appreciate, re-read and reject scripts. Before signing on Sanjay Gupta's "Jazbaa" opposite Irrfan Khan, the gorgeous actress was reportedly offered Sriram Raghavan's "Badlapur" as her comeback film.

According to a source quoted by Bollywood Life, the actress turned down the role because she didn't want to be part of an ensemble cast. Since, the "Guzaarish" actress will return to films after a four-year hiatus. "Even though she liked the subject, Ash wasn't too thrilled at the prospect of being part of a large group of actors in her come back film. Also her character has shades of grey and she didn't' want to do a negative role either," revealed the source close to the development.

Slated for release on February 20, "Badlapur" stars Varun Dhawan in the lead and is supported by Huma Qureshi, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Yami Gautam. With Aishwarya opting out of the film, reports suggest that some changes has to be made and two female leads were pulled in.

Said to be a thriller, "Badlapur" will see the villainous side of Dhawan. Taking a break from mushy rom-coms, the "Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania" actor will take some serious revenge and pack quite a few punches.

Essaying the role of a lawyer, Aishwarya's comeback film "Jazbaa" will go on floors next year. According to reports, the makers of the film will release a teaser during the Cannes International Film Festival 2015. Since Aishwarya will be performing high-octane action stunts, Gupta has reportedly hired Hollywood stunt director Spiro Razatos for the film.

The gorgeous actress has been off the box-office game for long and only time will tell if she will be able to break through the stiff competition. However, the makers are leaving no stone unturned to make the diva's comeback film a hit.