Not Nayanthara, But This Actress Was RJ Balaji's First Choice For Mookuthi Amman

Shruti Haasan is one of the critically acclaimed actresses in Indian cinema with a proven track record of hits like Krack, Race Gurram and others. She was also slated to play the role of Goddess Mookuthi Amman in the film Mookuthi Amman but was changed at the last moment. The director and the actor of this film, RJ Balaji, revealed this in an earlier interview.

In an interview with Film Companion South, shedding light on the casting process, Balaji said that he initially approached Shruti, one of her close friends. The Race Gurram actress was enthusiastic about being a part of this film and readily agreed to take on the role. However, Balaji said that Nayanthara contacted him and inquired why he hadn’t approached her for the film. This conversation ultimately led to Lady Superstar Nayanthara securing the role of Goddess Mookuthi Amman in the film, altering the course of casting decisions.

Nayanthara impressed the audience with her acting skills in this film. She was nominated for the South Indian International Movie Awards under the Best Actress in a Leading Role category. In addition to Balaji and Nayanthara, Mookuthi Amman starred an ensemble star cast of Urvashi, Smruthi Venkat, Ajay Ghosh and others.

Coming back to Shruti, she will be soon seen acting in the film Dacoit: A Love Story directed by Shaneil Deo. The title announcement teaser of this film gained traction from all sections of the audience. In the announcement teaser, the Race Gurram actress can be seen dressed in a saree. She is barefoot and is walking with a gun in her hand as burning vehicles and dead bodies, including that of policemen, lay around her. Adivi Sesh’s character is introduced much later in the video and both the actors have undergone a rustic makeover. They look, unlike their usual contemporary selves.

The director Shaneil had previously worked as the director of photography for Kshanam and Goodachari. The DOP turned director said in a statement that he’s excited to be welcomed with this film. “It’s an intense action drama with a beating heart. The teaser is just a tiny glimpse of what’s to come," he said in a statement.