After months of speculation, Lagaan director Ashutosh Gowariker has made up his mind about his next project.

Gowariker announced that his next film -- to go on the floors early next year -- will be called Swades. "Please, not Swadesh," he insists.

Swades will be a very topical contemporary subject tackling a burning issue in the drama format.

Belying the industry's expectations, Gowariker has not teamed up with Aamir Khan, who produced and acted in Lagaan. Swades' leading man is Shah Rukh Khan.

Shah Rukh was offered Lagaan and has since said he was 'stupid' to turn down the film. Gowariker acted with Shah Rukh on the Indian television series Circus and in Kundan Shah's Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa. They are known to be good friends. Shah Rukh has often said he is delighted with Gowariker's Lagaan success.

"I will produce Swades myself," Gowariker said