Junglee Pictures, known for making genre-defining films like Talvar, Raazi, Badhaai Ho and Badhaai Do, is gearing up to bring to the screen an epic drama-thriller. Titled Dosa King, the film was announced in July last year after the team acquired the life rights of Jeevajothi Santhakumar.

The project, which is currently being developed, will be directed by filmmaker T J Gnanavel, who will make his debut in Hindi cinema with this movie. Known for his widely relatable storytelling style and his flair for creating characters that cross the language and culture barriers, Gnanavel’s recent work includes the critically-acclaimed Tamil film Jai Bhim, which was also written by him. He is known for films like Payanam (Tamil-Telugu) and Kootathil Oruthan (Tamil) and is currently working on another project with National Award-winner Suriya.

Dosa King is inspired by Jeevajothi Santhakumar’s life and battle against a restaurant mogul, who was accused of a crime that shocked the nation. It resulted in a conviction after a trial that went on for 18 years – P Rajagopal vs State of Tamil Nadu. The film depicts Jeevajothi’s fight against her powerful opponent, who was the owner of one of the largest South Indian restaurant chains in the world. He was an Indian restaurateur, better known as a family man, who was worshipped for his generosity not only by his employees, but also by the diners. His pursuit of the unwilling Jeevajothi, who was less than half his age at the time, led to him being accused and eventually convicted for her husband, Prince Santhakumar’s murder. The Supreme Court served justice almost two decades after the crime was committed.

Sharing his excitement, T J Gnanavel says, “I’ve observed the subject closely, following the case during my days as a journalist. I hope to bring out new dimensions through Jeevajothi’s legal battle on screen. Today, directing this project and working on its characters feels surreal. I am excited to begin this journey with Junglee Pictures, which is known for developing some of the most iconic films in contemporary Indian cinema.”

A spokesperson from Junglee Pictures shares, “Dosa King is a riveting tale that will require a keen eye for detailing the characters and story. Gnanavel’s years as a journalist make him a balanced filmmaker with an obsession for details and authenticity. We’re beyond excited to partner with him to bring this captivating, unbelievable and inspiring saga to life.”

Junglee Pictures’ exciting slate this year also includes films like Doctor G, Woh Ladki Hai Kahaan?, Ulajh and Click Shankar.