The universe has perfect timing, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan will vouch for it. As the actor completes 24 years in the movies next week, she finds herself again under the tutelage of the man who started it all for her - Mani Ratnam. She began shooting for the auteur’s next, Ponniyin Selvan, at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad from January 6. To be developed in two parts, the period drama offers a retelling of the early days of Arulmozhi Varman before he became the great Chola emperor.

“It was a warm reunion for Aishwarya and Mani sir as they met after over a year. Five massive sets, replicating the 10th century architectural style of the Chola empire, have been designed by Thotta Tharani at the studio. Mani sir has charted out a two-month schedule as he plans to complete a major chunk of the movie,” says a source from the set, adding that the filmmaker had completed two stints before the pandemic.

Rai kicked off the shoot with a dramatic scene with co-star Sarath Kumar. “He plays Periya Pazhuvettaraiyar, the chancellor and treasurer of the Chola kingdom, while Aishwarya portrays Princess Nandini, his beautiful and manipulative wife. She will be seen in a double role as she also plays Nandini’s mother Mandakini Devi.” Vikram and Trisha, who play pivotal roles, will join the unit soon.

Following extensive research, Rai’s stylist Eka Lakhani and makeup team have created looks that are true to the milieu. “She’ll wear her hair to the side in an elaborate updo, complete with chunky gold jewellery, a waistband, and a statement headgear. As Mandakini Devi, she will sport a de-glam look.” The actor is simultaneously rehearsing for a dance number that will be filmed next month. Ratnam’s studio, Madras Talkies, confirmed the news of the shoot.