Shah Rukh, Bachchan play KBC

It started with a game, and could well end with one. The protracted 'cold war' between Shah Rukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan that has kept scribes busy for months now, may have died a sporty death in Mehboob Studios, Mumbai recently. Even if for a few moments.

Shah Rukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan were shooting at the studio for Ravi Chopra's Bhootnath. The schedule had been interminably delayed, with neither of the stars willing to give dates. That, coupled with the great wedding controversy (to which SRK was not invited), had led to the assumption that the rift between the two superstars was perhaps deepening. But then reports of Amitabh sending lavish gifts to SRK emerged.

Even then, director Vivek Sharma and producer Ravi Chopra were completely at the mercy of the two stars to complete the project. They finally came face to face after much water had flowed under the bridge.

But those who expected sparks to fly, were disappointed. No fireworks, no cold shoulders, but a genuine warmth. "Contrary to popular perception, Bachchan and SRK were getting along like a house on fire," say our sources. This was in fact corroborated by Vivek Sharma, director, Bhootnath. "All through the schedule, the two superstars were extremely friendly with each other."

"In fact," says Sharma, "They were playing a mock KBC." Interesting, since the cold war between the two stars started with SRK replacing Bachchan in the popular TV show.

According to Sharma, other members of the crew would join in the games too, with both the actors laughing heartily at every opportunity. "Shah Rukh is good with Trivial Pursuit (a game that tests your IQ). But Bachchan was better," reports Sharma. "He would almost always win." Why are we not surprised!