The word has spread like wildfire that Abhishek Bachchan won't be doing 'Department'. Though no one really knows what transpired and whether it was Abhishek's or Ram Gopal Varma's call to part ways for this film, the official reason being stated is 'dates problem'. However this is not where the story ends. The twist in the tale is that post Abhishek's exit, there is huge uncertainty around Amitabh Bachchan's presence in the film as well.

"When 'Department' was announced, both Amitabh as well as Abhishek were confirmed for the film," says an industry source, "At that time Ramu was quite excited about bringing the two together since the film was totally different from what he had done with the father-son jodi in 'Sarkar' and 'Sarkar Raj'. Even till a fortnight back there was no change in plans for the film's cast before this sudden announcement came around Rana replacing Abhishek."

"Naturally, there are questions now on whether Amitabh would want to be a part of the film where his son has been replaced. He is a professional but since no one knows if there was a conspiracy theory behind Abhishek's exit, there are already murmurs in the industry circle," he continues.

Ramu though is nonchalant around the whole episode and while he denies any conspiracy theory here, he plays his cards carefully when it comes to confirming on Amitabh's presence or the lack of it in 'Department'.

"As of now all I can say is that decision is still pending on who would play the part that you mention," Ramu says in a thoughtful manner, "This particular role is still at the writing stage and not completely developed in the script."

He goes on to confirm that other than Rana, only two people who have been cast so far are Sanjay Dutt and Kangna. "Any other name that you may hear would be plain speculation. Whether Mr. Bachchan or someone else joins the cast would be announced in due course of time," he says.

Here is looking at more twists in the tale Ramu.