Mani Ratnam has a terrific filmography, but the master film-maker has never attempted to make a historical drama. That might change if Mani Ratnam goes ahead with his plans to make his ambitious film yet. Ponniyin Selvan is based on a historical novel that revolves around Arulmozhivarman, a warrior who becomes the Chola king Rajaraja Chola I. This was Mani Ratnam's dream project, that he, unfortunately, had to abandon in 2013 over budgetary constraints. Wait, What! Shah Rukh Khan Was the First Choice For Mani Ratnam's Raavan.

Now after basking in the success of Chekka Chivantha Vanam, Mani Ratnam has regained his box office glory. As per a report in DNA, he has got the confidence to revive Ponniyin Selvan, with Chiyaan Vikram and Jayam Ravi being eyed for the lead roles. Chiyaan Vikram had earlier worked with Mani Ratnam in Raavan, while Jayam Ravi had never worked with the film-maker before. The report also states that Vijay Sethupathi, who had a crucial role in Chekka Chivantha Vanam, was also in talks for an important character in the film. Chekka Chivantha Vaanam Box Office: Mani Ratnam's STR-Vijay Sethupathi-Starrer Rules in Tamil Nadu; Also Does Well in International Markets.

But, the actor had to back out due to commitments to other projects. Mani Ratnam, meanwhile, is asking the interested actors to give him six months' bulk dates as a commitment to the film.

Interestingly, the recently married Soundarya Rajinikanth is also planning to make a web-series on the same subject. So we wonder which of these two projects will hit the marquee first! Watch this space for more updates on the story.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 11, 2019 07:50 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).