The court also directed UP to file an affidavit detailing the implementation of sex education in higher secondary schools

Nagarjuna Akkineni’s 100th film is the hottest topic in the tinsel town. When everyone was waiting for a grand announcement to be made, the project went on floors silently, much to the fans’ surprise. And now, there’s another interesting buzz that’s doing the rounds about the most-anticipated project. According to industry sources, actress Tabu is on board for the milestone film.

Directed by Ra Karthik, Nagarjuna’s 100th film has already commenced shooting in Hyderabad. But the leading lady has always been a constant source of speculation. Although none of the names popped up, the filmmakers have been constantly on the lookout. Apparently, it was the director who suggested Tabu’s name. When he pitched it to Nag, the actor too endorsed it. Tabu is generally very selective in choosing her characters and takes up only if she finds it to be substantial. Since, the leading lady in Nagarjuna’s 100th film isn’t a quintessential running around the trees, but a meaty role, the director wanted to bring Tabu on board. And for now, rumour mongers had it saying that Tabu has joined the film’s cast. Interestingly, the project would be Tabu’s second film as she had recently signed Vijay Sethupathi’s film under director Puri Jagannadh.

Nagarjuna and Tabu magic

Nagarjuna and Tabu have been paired in films like Ninne Pelladutha (1996) and Aavida Maa Aavide (1998). While the former was a blockbuster and an industry hit, the latter was an average fare. But what’s common between the two films was Nag and Tabu’s sizzling onscreen chemistry which the audiences appreciated. And Ra Karthik wanted to recreate their magic for Nag’s milestone film. And contrary to their earlier films, Tabu won’t play Nag’s love interest in the film, but she’ll be seen in a significant role. And Nagarjuna, apart from headlining the film, is also producing the film.

Also Read: Nagarjuna Akkineni Confirms His Next Film KING100, Says He Will Play The Protagonist

Rajamouli’s upcoming film SSMB29 (working title) is in the news again. With fresh speculation about the film’s title doing the rounds, the buzz surrounding the action adventure refuses to die down. According to the reports, Rajamouli is considering Varanasi as the title for the Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra Jonas-starrer.

Story has Ramayana connection

While the film’s shooting is progressing briskly, there have been reports about Rajamouli considering locking Varanasi as the film’s title. We have earlier reported that SSMB29 has a Ramayana connection, and the story also traverses across African nations. Adding to the buzz, Rajamouli has recreated the Varanasi set in Ramoji Film City. The set has reportedly cost around Rs 50 crore, and according to the reports, the set is not just a prop but given its magnificence and arc, it is a character in the film. Moreover, Mahesh Babu’s role carries shades of Lord Rama prompting Rajamouli to root for the title Varanasi.

“The title Varanasi is still under consideration, and the social media is already going crazy – it indicates the craze of the project,” says an exhibitor, adding that the project will have the widest release ever for an Indian film. Vijayendra Prasad (Rajamouli’s father) is reportedly inspired by the writings of author Addison Smith and wrote a brand-new version of what he envisioned.

Title reveals in November

Rajamouli had earlier revealed that the title and glimpse of the film would be unveiled in November. And speculations are rife that Hollywood director James Cameron would visit India to promote Avatar: Fire And Ash and potentially unveil the first look of Mahesh Babu’s film. Cameron is a noted admirer of Rajamouli’s films like RRR and Baahubali franchise. During RRR’s Oscar Award pre-show, Cameron lauded Rajamouli’s filmmaking as ‘spectacular’ and ‘muscular.’ He was particularly impressed by RRR’s ability to showcase Indian cinema on a global stage.

Also Read: Globetrotter: Rajamouli to Shoot a Folk Song on Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas?