Raghava Lawrence to roll out Kaala Bairavaa as franchise similar to his blockbuster Muni-Kanchana series

The multi-talented Raghava Lawrence has confirmed that he would be making his upcoming magnum opus Kaala Bairavaa as a franchise like the money-spinning Muni-Kanchana series of films. The shooting of the film will go on floors in April after Lawrence completes his ongoing commitments.

"Lawrence is planning to extend Kaala Bairavaa as a franchise with three or more sequels. The movie will be produced under his home banner Raghavendra Productions. The film has extensive pre-production work before going on floors. The cast and crew are also not finalized for the film yet. He is planning to release Kaala Bairavaa by early 2018," a soure told Firstpost, adding that it would not be a horror film, a genre which Lawrence excels in.

Lawrence is currently busy shooting for horror comedy Kanchana 3, the fourth part of the Muni franchise. Besides playing the lead role, he is also wielding the megaphone for the project which is being bankrolled by Sun Pictures. Starring Bigg Boss sensation Oviya and Vedhika as lead heroines, Kanchana 3 also stars Kovai Sarala, Sreeman, Devadarshini, and Manobala, who form an integral part of the Muni franchise, in important supporting roles. The shooting for the film is expected to be wrapped up in March and the makers are planning to release it during the summer holidays.

Lawrence is also part of a Tamil, Telugu bi-lingual film written by veteran writer Vijayendra Prasad, best known for his work in Baahubali, Bajrangi Bhaijaan and Mersal, and produced by Cameo Films. This yet untitled film will be directed by A Mahadev, an erstwhile associate of SS Rajamouli. Lyricist-writer Madhan Karky has been roped in to pen the film's dialogues.

"The story of the film is set against the backdrop of the 18th and 19th century but it will have all the commercial elements like Mersal. Vijayendra Prasad has written a mainstream entertainer," the source added. Earlier, the makers were in talks with Kajal Aggarwal to play the lead heroine in the film. Now, we have learned that talks have been initiated with other actresses too and an official announcement will be made next month.

Whether Lawrence would begin Kaala Bairavaa or the untitled film with Mahadev next is not known yet. "We strongly believe this film would be a greater milestone in our journey. Especially, what else can we ask for when a versatile writer like Vijayendra Prasad, the backbone of Baahubali success, being associated with our project," producer CJ Jayakumar had told earlier in a statement.

Published Date: Feb 15, 2018 09:28 AM | Updated Date: Feb 15, 2018 09:28 AM