Omkaram Guruji’s Devotional Program – 25th July

Director Shankar Shanmugam was once the undisputed trailblazer of the pan-India formula that now dominates Indian cinema. Long before the trend became mainstream, he introduced audiences to visual extravaganzas and grand, big-budget entertainers. However, in recent years, the celebrated filmmaker has lost his sheen, delivering back-to-back disappointments at the box office.

With films like Robot 2, Indian 2, and Game Changer failing to live up to towering expectations, Shankar has found himself in a difficult phase. These setbacks have not only dented his market but also made it challenging for him to convince top-tier actors and secure producers willing to invest the massive budgets traditionally associated with his filmmaking style. The heavy losses incurred by Indian 2 and Game Changer further fuelled speculation that his long-cherished dream project, Velpari, might struggle to find backing.

However, fresh reports suggest that Shankar may finally have found a producer for this ambitious venture—albeit with strict financial conditions. According to reliable Kollywood sources, leading Bollywood distribution and production house Pen Studios, known for releasing several South Indian films across North India, has agreed to associate with Velpari, which is based on the acclaimed Tamil novel of the same name.

That said, the collaboration comes with firm budgetary stipulations. Pen Studios has reportedly asked Shankar to submit a detailed budget estimate along with a clear and structured shooting schedule. More importantly, the production house is said to have demanded a written assurance from the director that the film’s budget will not be exceeded under any circumstances once shooting begins. It remains unclear whether Shankar has accepted these conditions and formally given his consent.

The project is expected to go on floors only after Shankar signs an agreement accepting these terms. A few months ago, the director had publicly expressed confidence about bringing his dream project to life on the big screen. However, the cast and crew of this much-anticipated period drama are yet to be announced. If it materialises as planned, Velpari is likely to be the most ambitious and possibly the biggest project in Shankar’s illustrious filmography.