Director VV Vinayak is turning lead actor with an untitled film to be bankrolled by Dil Raju. The Khaidi No. 150 director will be seen as a farmer in the film set in the pre-independence era, in the 1940s.

He has reportedly started preparing for the role and is following a rigorous workout regime to get into shape for the upcoming film.

"Vinayak is determined to shed a few kilos and has been put on a diet under the supervision of a personal trainer. He is determined to look younger for the part," informs a source.

Newcomer Narasimha Rao, who earlier worked as an assistant for Shankar, is turning director for this film, which is expected to go on floors on October 9, coinciding with Vinayak's birthday.

The female lead as well as the rest of the cast and crew are yet to be finalised.