(Image source from: Aishwarya Rai to make a comeback opposite Nagarjuna)

Tinsel town is abuzz with speculations on Aishwarya Rai's possible comeback for sometime now.

Grapevine had it that Aishwarya Rai is planning to reel back under the arc lights with hubby Abhishek Bachchan in tow for a Mani Ratnam movie. But seems, there is a slight change in the plan now.

Yes, Ash has been indeed signed in for Mani Ratnam's next, sans her husband.

A source revealed, “Mani Ratnam shares a fabulous equation with Abhishek and Ash. But this time he’s planning to direct a film that revolves around a female protagonist. Mani feels there is little room for Abhishek in this film.”

If not Abhishek, then who will share the screen space with Aishwarya? It's rumored that Telugu superstars Mahesh Babu and Nagarjuna will be pitted against the actress in Mani Ratnam's maiden women-oriented flick.

If all goes as planned, then the movie will hit the floors by July.

Mani is currently doing a recce for the film, which will be mostly shot abroad.

Aishwarya Rai has been on a sabbatical for nearly three years now. He last on screen stint was with Hrithik Roshan in 'Guzaarish'.

It's also buzzed that noted adman Prahlad Kakkar has roped in both Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan for his film 'Happy Anniversary'. We are yet to get any official confirmation on this, however.

AW: Suchorita Choudhury