LCU’s Next Sensation: Anushka Shetty in Talks for Kaithi 2?

Without debate, the Lokesh Kanagaraj Cinematic Universe (LCU) stands as South India’s biggest cinematic universe, uniting Tamil cinema’s top superstars—Karthi, Suriya, Vijay, and Kamal Haasan. With such a powerhouse lineup, it’s no wonder that every star in the country wants a piece of the LCU action.

It all began with Kaithi (2019), starring Karthi, which laid the foundation for this ambitious universe. Ever since the sequel was teased at the film’s release, fans have been eagerly waiting for Kaithi 2. However, Lokesh Kanagaraj kept the project on the back burner, moving from one blockbuster to another. Recently, Lokesh confirmed that he will helm Kaithi 2 after wrapping up Rajinikanth’s much-awaited Coolie, which also features a pan-Indian cast including Nagarjuna, Upendra, and Aamir Khan.

With Coolie slated for an August 14 release, Lokesh has reportedly started prepping for Kaithi 2. The latest buzz is that Lady Superstar Anushka Shetty is in talks to join the cast. While her role remains under wraps, industry insiders suggest she might play Karthi’s wife, as the sequel is expected to explore Kaithi’s prequel storyline—something Lokesh hinted at in the original. If true, this marks a massive addition to the film’s star power. Notably, Karthi and Anushka last shared screen space in the 2013 film Alex Pandian.

On the professional front, Anushka Shetty is set to return to the big screen on July 11 with Ghaati, directed by Krish Jagarlamudi. She was last seen in Miss Shetty Mr Polishetty (2023) alongside Naveen Polishetty. Anushka also has the Malayalam fantasy thriller Kathanar – The Wild Sorcerer with acclaimed director Rojin Thomas in her kitty. If she joins Kaithi 2, it could be a game-changer in her comeback journey.

Meanwhile, Karthi is on a sequel spree. Besides Kaithi 2, he has wrapped up Sardar 2, which will hit screens soon, and is also lined up for potential sequels like Aayirathil Oruvan 2, Theeran Adhigaram Ondru 2, and HIT 4. Kaithi 2 official cast and crew announcement is expected right after Coolie’s release. The LCU fever is only getting bigger!