Filmmaker Mani Ratnam for long has toyed with the idea of adapting 'Ponniyin Selvan' into a film with a huge star cast. Over a decade ago, he had almost announced the project with Vijay, Vikram and Mahesh Babu, and later with Karthi and Ram Charan.
But for reasons unknown, the film never took off and after multiple attempts, it is learned Ratnam may soon revive it with Vikram, Vijay Sethupathi and Jayam Ravi in the lead. Simbu will also star in one of the crucial roles. It is being speculated that megastar Amitabh Bachchan has been approached to essay the role of Sundara Chola in the film.
Lyca Productions is most likely to bankroll the project. Apparently, buoyed by the success of Chekka Chivantha Vaanam, Lyca has agreed to come on board to fund Ratnam’s dream project.
A source close to Ratnam said: “The team is waiting for the official nod from Vijay Sethupathi on his dates. Once he gives his nod, an official announcement can be expected.” While working on Chekka Chivantha Vaanam, Ratnam discussed the idea of reviving his plan to make 'Ponniyin Selvan' as a film and Vijay Sethupathi immediately expressed his interest.
It is said that it was Sethupathi who pushed Ratnam to go ahead with the plan.
Even if Sethupathi gives his dates, it will impossible for the project to go on the floors this year as the rest of the cast members are busy with their respective commitments. Vikram, who has just wrapped up shooting for Kadaram Kondan, will soon commence work on Mahavir Karna.
Jayam Ravi is busy shooting for Komaali. He also has Thani Oruvan 2 in the pipeline with his brother Mohan Raja. Vijay Sethupathi has multiple commitments. Nevertheless, it will be really interesting to see if the project will take off or not.
(Content provided by Digital Native)