Actor Nithiin’s much-anticipated collaboration with director Venu Yeldandi, titled Yellamma, was initially expected to go on floors by now. However, filming has yet to commence, even though pre-production work is reportedly complete.
The film is being produced by Dil Raju’s banner on a lavish budget, with Venu — who delivered the surprise hit Balagam — given greater creative freedom for this project. While the team had announced the film earlier, insiders suggest that Dil Raju is still mulling over certain aspects before giving the final nod to start shooting.
The delay comes in the wake of a major disappointment for both Nithiin and Dil Raju — the recent release Thammudu turned out to be a box office failure despite high expectations. Still, with Yellamma already announced, the makers are unlikely to replace Nithiin. The actor, in fact, has expressed confidence that this project will earn him double the recognition of his previous works. Reports suggest the film will carry the same emotional depth as Balagam.
Keerthy Suresh has been roped in as the female lead, and her role in Yellamma is said to be one of the highlights, offering her scope for an intense and powerful performance. Interestingly, she is also starring opposite Vijay Deverakonda in Dil Raju’s other production, Rowdy Janardhan, with her remuneration reportedly fixed for both films together.
While the sets are ready, production has been delayed, possibly due to Dil Raju’s recent financial setbacks from other projects. Industry talk suggests that any significant changes to the plan at this stage — including potential last-minute tweaks in casting or scheduling — would not be surprising.
Interestingly, Yellamma was originally pitched to actor Nani, who appreciated the story but turned it down due to the heroine’s dominant role. Nithiin was then brought on board. The initial schedule aimed for an August shoot start, but fans are now waiting for an official update on when the cameras will finally roll.