Actress Nayanthara may be part of director Mani Ratnam’s big-budget film adaptation of Ponniyin Selvan, the historical novel by Kalki. Shoot for the film is likely to begin early next year.
In April, it was reported that Mani Ratnam approached Nayanthara for the role of Poonguzhali, wife of Madhurandhaka Uthama Chozhan. This news died down without confirmation, but it is now speculated that she has finalised her role and will be seen as Kundavai Nachiyar, sister of Raja Raja Chozhan, in the film. The spokesperson for the film maintains that nothing can be confirmed yet regarding the cast.
Pre-production work has been on since the start of this year. It was recently reported that Vikram is part of the cast and may be seen as Aditya Karikalan, brother of Raja Raja Chozhan, to be played by Jayam Ravi. Malayalam actor Jayaram may also be in the film. Aishwarya Rai reportedly plays Nandhini, the character who plans the downfall of Chola kingdom, Telugu actor Mohan Babu is Pazhuvetarayar, Amitabh Bachchan is Sundara Cholan, and Amala Paul plays Vaanathi. It was said Keerthy Suresh was also approached for the role of Kunthavai Naachiyar. Vijay Sethupathi, Karthi and Simbu may play other roles.
The film was announced over a decade ago but could not take off due to financial issues. Mani Ratnam was initially in talks with Lyca Productions for the project, but it is now likely to be backed by Reliance Entertainment, along with the director’s home banner Madras Talkies.
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Soundarya Rajinikanth is to produce a web adaptation of the novel, directed by Sooriyaprathap S. This project is expected to begin soon.
Meanwhile, Nayanthara has just resumed shoot for her portions in director Atlee’s Bigil with Vijay, scheduled to release this Deepavali. She has been shooting for AR Murugadoss’ Darbar, and has Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy, Love Action Drama, and Kolaiyuthir Kaalam in the pipeline, and may also be seen as Sita in a film directed by Nitesh Tiwari and Ravi Udyawar.