Ramesh Aravind in experimental mode for Shivaji Surathkal  

Popular actor Ramesh Aravind’s next, Shivaji Surathkal - The Case of Ranagiri Rahasya, in which he plays the titular character. We now hear that a special look has been designed for the actor. According to director Akash Srivatsava, this is the first time he will be sporting a beard. “Nearly four months have elapsed since he has shaved,” says Akash.

“The film traverses two different timelines. Shivaji is the only character who appears in both the timelines, and in order to avoid any confusion that might arise in the minds of the audience, we decided to go ahead with this rugged look for one timeline in the film,” he says.

The film has been shot mostly in Madikeri, and parts of Bengaluru, and is 80 per cent completed. The makers have simultaneously begun the editing process too.

Throwing light on Ramesh’s character, Akash says, “Shivaji is the ablest investigating officer in the state crime branch. With a razor-sharp mind and an uncanny ability to analyse a crime, Shivaji is the department’s first choice for high-profile cases. His unorthodox methods of deduction coupled with his unique ability to re-imagine the events leading up to the crime is what Ramesh will portray.”

The film, made under Anjanadri Cine Creations, has Radhika Chetan playing the role of a lawyer and Ramesh Aravind’s wife. The cast also includes Aarohi Narayan, who essays the role of a psychiatrist, and Raghavendra Govinda, who will be seen as Ramesh’s sidekick. The story, written by the director along with Abhijith, has music scored by Judah Sandhy. The camerawork is handled by Guruprasad MG, while Sachchina Heggar has specially designed the costumes for the thriller.