Hareesh Peradi turns hero 

Known for his roles in Vikram Vedha and Mersal, Hareesh Peradi will soon be playing the main character in the Malayalam film Paayal Kunjunni, which will be written and directed by newcomer Akhil Kavungal. 

About his role, the actor says, "I will be essaying the role of a lonely, middle-aged man who doesn't change with the times. The whole world has passed by him and he is still stuck in the past. He is single and hasn't been in the company of women. But, after he turns 50, he becomes a different man. He now begins to yearn for a female companion." 

Explaining the film's title, Peradi says, "His name is Kunjunni and this 'Payal' is a nickname given to people like him. He is called that name by the people around him, and hence the title."

He goes on to add, "Though there are not many characters in this film, the principal characters are all quite bold. When I read the script, I was floored by this character. I felt that it would be a perfect role for me to do. This will be a character-driven film, different from anything I have done before "

The film's shooting is expected to commence in May, with Kozhikode being the main location.