Timing one’s entries and exits to avoid embarrassing run-ins is a skill our B-town denizens have down pat, right Deepika and Katrina? Last night, we saw the same talent exhibited by rumoured exes, Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra. While it hasn’t required much plotting and planning to dodge each other at most B-town get-togethers, the Zee Cine Awards 2018 was different. While it marked Priyanka Chopra’s only awards performance in two years – for which she famously charged a crore per minute for her 4-5 minute performance! – Shah Rukh would also be on stage to receive the special honour to mark his contribution to the film and TV industry over the past 25 years.

This time was definitely a lot trickier and it was smoothly accomplished. Well aware of Chopra’s presence and performance at the show, Shah Rukh reportedly arrived at the venue earlier than usual, did not pose for the cameras, used the entrance meant only for performers, and left soon after receiving his award.

Recommended Read: Priyanka To Ranveer: Stars Who Slayed And Dismayed At Zee Cinema Awards 2018

Priyanka, on the other hand, reached the venue after Shah Rukh's exit and went on to pose for the paparazzi before moving inside for her stage performance.

The two have maintained both a personal and professional distance ever since they shot for Don 2 together. It was allegedly Gauri Khan who had put an end to the purported affair between Khan and Chopra, compelling her husband to break ties with the ‘Quantico’ actress. Khan has complied.

…Which is why we aren’t exactly optimistic about seeing the two being cast together for the Rakesh Sharma biopic, Salute. Buzz had it that Priyanka was to play the wife of the first Indian astronaut in space. However, with Aamir Khan walking out of the project to concentrate on his own mythological project, it was revealed that the film was to be offered to Shah Rukh Khan. If SRK does accept the film, it looks like the makers would have to re-cast for the role of the wife…Or vice-versa.

Chopra has stated, “I was approached for that film when Aamir Khan was doing it. He is not in the film now. We were supposed to do it in 2019. Now, I don't know.” Quizzed about SRK’s confirmation for the role, she replied, “I don't know. I haven't got any confirmations. I haven't spoken to Sid (producer Siddharth Roy Kapur) or Mahesh Mathai sir. As soon as I know, I will see.”

‘I will see…’ A lot lies in those three little words. And they most likely will be a ‘Sorry but no’.