Naga Chaitanya, who last headlined the survival drama Thandel, is working with Virupaksha fame Karthik Dandu for his next project. The film, tentatively titled NC24, is billed as a mythological thriller with a hint of fantasy. There were a few reports of Laapataa Ladies actor Sparsh Shrivastava being signed for the antagonist’s role.

On Thursday, the NC24 officially announced the onboarding of Sparsh Shrivastava for the lead cast. Sparsh shot to limelight last year with his performance in Kiran Rao directorial Laapataa Ladies, that was produced by Aamir Khan. Sparsh played the role of Deepak in the comedy-drama. Sparsh’s other notable works include Jamtara, Ae Watan Mere Watan, and Dupahiya. 

Incidentally, the makers confirmed the news on the Laapataa Ladies actor's birthday.

While the details of his characters are under wraps, the makers of NC24 said that Sparsh’s is going to be a ‘path breaking role,’ in their announcement post. The film is jointly produced by BVSN Prasad and Sukumar under the banners Sri Venkateswara Cine Chitra LLP and Sukumar Writings.

While other cast details are yet to be announced, NC24 features music by Ajaneesh Loknath, cinematography by Ragul Dharuman, production design by Sri Nagendra Tangala, and editing by Naveen Nooli. Sukumar is also credited with the screenplay.  

In April, the team had released a concept teaser, giving a glimpse into the CGI and production design process of their film, which is mounted as Naga Chaitanya’s highest-budgeted so far, leaving behind the likes of Thandel and Love Story. The second schedule of the film commenced in Hyderabad in July.  

The makers of NC24 are yet to announce a release window for their film.