Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in talks to join Rajinikanth's 'Thalaivar 169'?
Tamil superstar Rajinikanth's 169th outing with director Nelson Dilipkumar was announced last week. As we wait for more updates, the latest reports suggest the makers are holding talks with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan to sign her on as the leading lady. If this turns out to be true, it will be Rajinikanth and Rai Bachchan's second collaboration, coming 11 years after their maiden film Enthiran.
Why does this story matter?
The buzz around Rajinikanth's films has always been pretty high and this upcoming venture, tentatively titled Thalaivar 169, is no different. Rai Bachchan, on the other hand, has a humongous fan base in Tamil Nadu despite appearing only in five Kollywood films so far (not including the upcoming magnum opus Ponniyin Selvan). So, their collaboration is surely worth looking forward to.
'Thalaivar 169' be rolled out in April?
The casting of Rai Bachchan is yet to be officially confirmed by the makers. Meanwhile, reports also suggest the yet-to-be-titled flick may go on floors by the end of April or May. While announcing the film, the makers earlier revealed that Anirudh Ravichander has been roped in to helm music. Sun Pictures, which bankrolled Rajinikanth's previous venture Annaatthe, is backing this project, too.
Rai Bachchan will be next seen in mega-budgeter 'Ponniyin Selvan'
Meanwhile, Rai Bachchan is awaiting the release of her next Tamil project Ponniyin Selvan. Directed by Mani Ratnam, the historical drama boasts of an ensemble star cast, including Trisha Krishnan, Vikram, "Jayam" Ravi, Karthi, and Radhakrishnan Parthiban to name a few. Jointly produced by Madras Talkies and Lyca Productions, the film will be released in two parts. AR Rahman is composing music for it.
Director Dilipkumar's next release is 'Beast' starring Vijay
On the other hand, Dilipkumar is currently waiting for the release of the highly-anticipated Kollywood film Beast, starring Vijay and Pooja Hegde. The makers have wrapped up the shooting process and the film is currently in the post-production stage. Ravichander has composed music for Beast, too. Touted to be an action-packed entertainer, the film is expected to release on April 14.