Malavika Mohanan, last seen in the Malayalam film Christy, has recently taken to social media to respond to rumours about her being the second lead of Ustaad Bhagat Singh, opposite Pawan Kalyan. Malavika wrote, "Have so much admiration for Pawan Kalyan sir, but have to clarify I’m not a part of this project. I’m currently working on a amazing telugu film(as the main lead not the second) which will be my debut in telugu cinema, an industry I’m excited to dive into". 

The film Malavika is talking about, in which she is playing the main female lead, is Prabhas's upcoming film Raja Deluxe, directed by Maruthi. 

Ustaad Bhagat Singh, directed by Harish Shankar, is the official Telugu remake of Atlee's Theri (2016). Pawan Kalyan will be reprising the role played by Vijay in the original. Ustaad Bhagat Singh is produced by Mythri Movie Makers, with music composed by Devi Sri Prasad. The film was officially launched on December 12 last year.