Mumbai, Aug 12 - From Salsa lessons to riding classes - Abhay Deol, who is back here from New York to shoot 'Ayesha', is neck deep in preparations for the film that is going to hit the floors Aug 27.

Director Rajshri Ojha direct the delayed project of Anil Kapoor's production with Abhay and Sonam Kapoor. The film is said to be an adaptation of Jane Austen's novel 'Emma', about the perils of misconstrued romance.

'I know there were rumours about the future of the film. There always will be rumours about everything. I'm taking Salsa lessons for my character from my choreographer Ashley Lobo. After this, I've to start taking riding lessons. So work is on full swing,' Abhay, who made it big with 'Dev D', told IANS.

The actor admits he hasn't read Austen's novel as part of his preparation for 'Ayesha'. 'But all of Jane Austen's heroes have some distinctive traits.'

'Ayesha' would seem like a far more conventional film than the quirky off-mainstream character he has been playing. 'You forget, I started my career with a romantic comedy. Imtiaz Ali's 'Socha Na Tha',' he said.