Mumbai/IBNS: Filmmaker Anurag Basu has finally opened up about why Bollywood's new heartthrob Triptii Dimri exited his upcoming romantic film with Kartik Aaryan.

Anurag has trashed the rumour that Triptii was dropped because of her bold image that has reportedly been created out of her recent works.

"Image was not the reason. I am the last person to judge an actor on the basis of the other characters they have played on screen. Aashiqui was not even the story anymore... I don’t know the source of these stories which came out," Anurag said speaking to Hindustan Times.

The 'Life in a... Metro' director told the daily, "Most important thing is dates. Triptii is shooting for a film with Vishal Bhardwaj, and my film goes on floors this month too. She is still my best friend, I really like her as an actress. You should ask her too what happened."

Contrary to what was earlier reported, Anurag has confirmed that the film in question will not be titled as Aashiqui 3.

Triptii, who first caught the limelight with her roles in Laila Majnu, Bulbbul, Qala, turned a 'national crush' overnight featuring in a limited role in Sandeep Reddy Vanga's 2023 film Animal, where he romanced Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor.

Triptii grabbed eyeballs with a nude scene with Ranbir in the film which co-starred Rashmika Mandanna in the lead.

After the 'Animal's success, the actress went on to feature in a number of films, namely, Bad Newz, Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3.