Over the last few months, there have been plenty of rumours about Rohit Shetty’s next film. While Shah Rukh Khan had already been confirmed for the lead role, speculation about who his co-stars would be had been rife, reports Hindustan Times.

On Rohit’s birthday, on 14 March, the director finally confirms the cast, and reveals more details of the film, titled Dilwale.

‘So much has been said regarding the casting of this film, and about many films that I’m not even making, so Shah Rukh and I decided that I should put it out there officially,’ says Rohit, adding, ‘I’ve paired Shah Rukh with Kajol and Varun (Dhawan) with Kriti (Sanon). It’s not a remake of Hum (1991) or any other film, and it will be a Christmas release.’

Shah Rukh had recently mentioned that the film will be an action-packed one, but Rohit doesn’t want to slot it under a particular genre.

‘It’s a wholesome entertainer and I would not categorise it as an action or a comedy film. It’s a family film that has everything in it,’ he says, adding, ‘I also have the big responsibility of bringing Kajol back after a long time, and pairing her with Shah Rukh. All I can do is work really hard.’

Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol and Rohit Shetty share a light moment at the Hindustan Times Mumbai's Most Stylish Awards 2014.

Shooting for the film is set to commence on 20 March. Portions with Varun and Kriti will be filmed first, following which Shah Rukh and Kajol will join the team. Rohit adds, ‘Varun is a fabulous actor, and he has already proved his versatility in the films he has done so far. As for Kriti, I have seen Heropanti (2014), and she is quite confident as an actor. Plus, it’s a fresh pair, so I’m looking forward to working with them.’

Ask about his birthday plans, and the director says there’s nothing special in store. ‘Like every birthday, I’m working on this one too,’ he says.