Tiger Print Shirt, Caravan Pic: Rukmini on NTR’s Sets?

Man of Masses NTR’s upcoming action saga with director Prashanth Neel is one of the most anticipated pan-Indian films currently in the making. The film’s shoot has been progressing at a brisk pace, beginning in early summer with schedules in Karnataka and Hyderabad. In fact, Prashanth Neel was recently spotted celebrating RCB’s IPL win at Ramoji Film City, confirming that the film is in active production there.

While the makers have remained tight-lipped about the female lead, our sources confirm that Kannada sensation Rukmini Vasanth is on board. Known for her soulful performance in Sapta Sagaradaache Ello, Rukmini rose to pan-South popularity after the film turned her into a youth heartthrob.

Though no official announcement has been made, Rukmini’s latest Instagram post has set tongues wagging. Dressed in a white shirt with tiger prints and posing inside a caravan, her caption read, “Tiger Tiger burning bright…” This is seen by fans as a clear nod to Jr NTR, who is fondly referred to as the ‘Tiger’ of Telugu cinema. Fans and film circles are now speculating that the post was clicked right on the sets of the NTR-Neel film.

Sources close to the unit reveal that Rukmini has indeed signed on for the film. She has reportedly been asked not to take up any other projects, especially low-budget ones, until this film hits the screens. Despite being flooded with offers across South industries, the talented actress is said to be turning them down out of respect for her commitment to this biggie. With fans now connecting the dots, everyone is eagerly awaiting an official confirmation from the team. Until then, Rukmini’s tiger-print clue is enough to keep the excitement alive.

Meanwhile, the team had initially planned a glimpse for NTR’s birthday. However, it was reportedly shelved to avoid clashing with the WAR 2 teaser launch.

Tipped to be titled Dragon, this high-octane action entertainer is being mounted on a massive budget by Mythri Movie Makers. It marks the most expensive project in the careers of both NTR and Prashanth Neel. Music is being composed by Neel’s trusted collaborator Ravi Basrur.