MUMBAI, April 9: In the first major attempt at a cross-border film since the peace process between Pakistan and India began, a Pakistani superstar has been cast in a Bollywood potboiler, the film's director said on Friday.

Muammar Rana will play in "Dobara", which will also feature Indian stars Jackie Shroff, Raveena Tandon and Mahima Choudhury, said director Shashi Ranjan.

"I am happy to say that we are the first people to sign up with a big Pakistani artist," said Ranjan, whose film revolves around the changes that occur in the lives of a couple when they encounter a psychiatric patient.

"So far there has only been talk about including Pakistani actors and actresses in Bollywood films but we have actually gone ahead and signed a superstar from there," Mr Ranjan said.

He said the warmth he had experienced from Pakistanis when he attended last month's one-day cricket series had prompted him to sign Muammar Rana for his film. "I had gone to watch the cricket matches in Pakistan last month and I was touched by the warmth of Pakistani people," Mr Ranjan said.

"So I thought, why not sign up one of the Pakistani actors in my film. I was told that Muammar was one of the superstars of Pakistan and when I approached him he agreed to do the role."

For Rana, shooting in India is not that different from being on set in Pakistan. "On my first visit to Bombay, I am not feeling that I am out of Pakistan," Rana said.

"When I did rehearsals for my role I felt as if I was in Pakistan because we have the same language and the same culture. Indians have won my heart." Rana, son of former Test player Shafqat Rana, has around 40 films to his credit, including big grossers like "Yeh Dil Apka Hua" and "Choodiyan".

"I am happy the way my career is shaping in Pakistan, but I understand I may have to start from scratch here. I am not sure whether I am ready for that," Muammar Rana told the Times of India. For Rana, his presence in the movie is a step forward for the peace process between the two countries.

"Cricket has done its bit for the friendship and I feel Bollywood and art can also do the same," said Choudhury. He hoped "Dobara" would be the first Indian movie officially released in Pakistan. "Dobara" is set for a June release in India and is currently shooting in Mumbai and the neighbouring beach town of Alibaug. -AFP