By Taran Adarsh, September 20, 2010 - 08:40 IST

It's confirmed! Kareena Kapoor will star opposite Salman Khan in brother-in-law Atul Agnihotri's next project, a remake of the Malayalam hit BODYGUARD. There was speculation that Katrina Kaif would essay the lead role, but Atul clarifies, "See, we have already decided to release our film during the Eid week next year. Since Katrina has committed her dates to other projects, we decided to cast an actor whose dates would match with Salman's and would facilitate the release of the film during the festive week next year."

However, this combo - Salman and Kareena - hasn't delivered a Hit in the past. "It all depends on the film and how the audience takes to it. Why blame a pair for its failure? Besides, they may be third time lucky with my film," Atul smiles. Meanwhile, Atul is keen on calling his film BODYGUARD, not MY LOVE STORY or MERI LOVE STORY. Directed by Siddique, the film has music by Pritam.