Noted television director Aranyo Anawer declared his debut feature film yesterday, featuring popular actress Pori Moni.

After the news was published, renowned actress Nazia Haque Orsha claimed on social media that she was approached for the role in the same film and that she was not informed of being dropped from the movie.

The Daily Star reached out to Aranyo Anawer to know his side of the story.

"It is true that we approached Orsha," said the director. "However, she could not manage with time. She gave me a schedule of eight days, without even considering if I can work on those days."

"Also, is it possible to shoot a full feature film in just eight days?" he questioned.

The director also claimed that Orsha had asked for full advance payment, which seemed unprofessional to him. "I was extremely shocked to get her message, asking for full payment in advance! Who does that?" 

The director claims that he did not further respond to the message, as he was hurt and shocked by Orsha's behaviour. Aranyo Anawer also said that he is embarrassed by the fact that the actress has called him 'dishonest' in her public post on Facebook.

"I have spoken to my lawyer, he will help me decide what legal actions can be taken, as she has defamed me. I am mentally exhausted."

The director informed that he had been talking to other artistes for this role as well. "My first choice for the role was Runa Khan, we had multiple meetings regarding this as well," shares the maker. "If someone can taunt me, it is Runa and no one else, as Runa had shed a lot of weight just for this role."

"After approaching many artistes, I have finalised Pori Moni, because I felt she will be the right choice for the role," shares Aranyo Anawer.

On asking if he had informed Orsha about the matter, "I did not feel that it was important to let her know, as we did not go that further with the deal. However, I did message her saying that we are not doing the project due to technical difficulties."

The director is furious about the matter, and claims that he has been publicly humiliated. "I have worked with so many great artistes in the industry, and everybody is aware of my reputation," he says. "I will not tolerate someone trying to defame me. I will definitely take legal action."