LONDON: Cate Blanchett's controversial new film Indian Summer has hit another setback - movie bosses have reportedly stalled the project amid concerns over the budget.

The Australian actress is due to star as Lady Edwina Mountbatten in the picture, about her alleged affair with India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.

The movie, to be directed by Joe Wright, has already been delayed once after the Indian government stepped in, asking to check the script to make sure Nehru was not portrayed in a negative light.

Officials gave the film the green light but production has been put on hold once again, amid rumours the project has fallen victim to cuts at Hollywood's Universal studio.

Studio executives have reportedly shelved the movie over concerns about the estimated $30-40 million (£20-26 million) budget and the added cost of filming on location in India, according to Britain's Empire magazine.