Telugu actor Mohan Babu has been approached to play a crucial role in director Mani Ratnam's big-budget historical drama based on Kalki's Ponniyin Selvan. The 68-year-old actor, known for portraying versatile roles, was last seen in Nadigaiyar Thilagam. 

"It’s a period trilogy which unfolds on a mammoth canvas and features several prominent actors from across industries. Mohan Babu has agreed in principle to work in the film, but is yet to sign the agreement. The film will be made in several Indian languages and requires his bulk dates. An official statement will be out soon," says a source. 

The film is expected to go on floors in 2020. Incidentally, Soundarya Rajinikanth recently announced the production of a historical series based on the same novel for a streaming platform.