Mumbai: In a casting shake-up no one saw coming, Ranbir Kapoor has reportedly stepped into the role once meant for Ranveer Singh in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s long-awaited magnum opus ‘Baiju Bawra’.

The news, breaking on Ranbir’s 43rd birthday, has left fans buzzing — especially since Ranveer was believed to have already started preparing for the part.

According to a report in the Deccan Chronicle, Bhansali has finally locked Ranbir as the lead in his ambitious musical romance, with filming expected to begin next year.

Sources reveal that Ranbir’s passion for old Hindi film music played a big role in the casting. “Ranbir begins his mornings with classics from the 1950s, including songs from the original Baiju Bawra (1952). He’s even been introducing his daughter Raha to these timeless melodies,” an insider shared.

For years, ‘Baiju Bawra’ has been on Bhansali’s wishlist, making it one of Bollywood’s most anticipated projects. While names like Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt were linked to the film in the past, the final cast was never officially announced.

This casting change comes even as Ranbir readies for Bhansali’s other grand venture, Love & War. With Baiju Bawra now also on his slate, the actor seems set to channel his love for vintage music into a role that could redefine his career.