Speculation is rife in Kollywood that filmmaker S Shankar may have sounded out Dhanush for a key role in his long-cherished historical project, Velpari. While there has been no official word from either camp, industry buzz suggests preliminary discussions could be underway.
Velpari, often described as Shankar’s dream venture, is believed to be structured as a dual-hero narrative. Earlier reports had linked Vikram and Ranveer Singh to the lead roles, though nothing materialised on that front. Now, sources claim the director has enquired about Dhanush’s availability for dates.
Fuelling the rumours further is Shankar’s recent appearance at the pooja ceremony of Dhanush’s upcoming film, tentatively titled D55. Insiders also suggest that R Take Studios, one of the banners backing D55, is in conversations with Shankar regarding the production of Velpari. However, these developments remain unconfirmed.
The proposed film is an adaptation of Veera Yuga Nayagan Vel Pari, the acclaimed historical novel by Su Venkatesan. The book chronicles the life and times of Vel Pari, the legendary Tamil ruler celebrated for his valour, governance and extraordinary generosity.
Pari’s legacy endures in Tamil folklore and literature. The oft-quoted line “Mullaikku Theru Koduthaan Pari” continues to be referenced across Tamil Nadu, a tribute to the king who, according to lore, offered his own chariot to support a fragile jasmine creeper. He is counted among the revered “Kadai Ezhu Vallalgal", the last seven great philanthropists of ancient Tamil tradition.
Shankar has previously spoken about his deep admiration for the novel. Recalling his attempt to read it during the Covid-19 lockdown, the director revealed that he struggled to find a copy. “Writer Su Venkatesan gave his personal copy to me to read,” Shankar had shared at a public event, adding that he was overwhelmed by the depth of research and vivid detailing of a ruler who lived nearly 2,000 years ago.
Last seen in Tere Ishk Mein, Dhanush is currently awaiting the release of Kara, helmed by Vignesh Raja. In the pipeline, he has D55 with Rajkumar Periasamy, D56 with Mari Selvaraj, and the Abdul Kalam biopic Kalam: The Missile Man of India, among others.