Ponniyin Selvan, which is based on
kalki Krishnamurthy's historical epic, narrates the tale of the Chola Empire, widely regarded as the "largest" empire in
indian history. It demands the sacrifice of the royal blood and opens with images of a comet moving through the sky. We meet Aditha Karikalan played by Chiyaan Vikram, Arunmozhi Varman played by
jayam Ravi, and Vanthiyathevan played by Karthi.
trisha krishnan, who plays Kundavai, is one of the three men who wield swords, ride horses, go on adventures and covert missions, and meet princesses from far-off regions.
Of course,
aishwarya Rai Bachchan, who portrays
queen Nandini, is the star of the trailer. She forewarns against Aditha and Arunmozhi getting married, possibly knowing more than she is letting on. In the episodes that follow, there are wars, conflicts, and bloodshed, but Nandini's gaze never leaves the seat of the monarch.
aishwarya will play two roles. She will portray Mandakini Devi in the historical drama as well as
queen Nandini, the princess of Pazhuvoor who is on a quest for vengeance.
In addition to them,
sobhita dhulipala also appears in the film. She is prepared to play the part of a clever and polite
queen named Vanathi in Mani Ratnam's next Pan-Indian film.
aishwarya and south actor
vikram have worked together twice before, most recently on the critically acclaimed
movie Raavan (2010).
ponniyin selvan is their fourth joint project with
director Mani Ratnam, following Iruvar in 1997, Guru in 2007, and Raavan (2010).