After Janhvi Kapoor, it appears that another Bollywood A-lister will join Jr NTR in Koratala Siva’s upcoming #NTR30. We have learnt that talks are underway to cast Saif Ali Khan as the antagonist in the film. With an impressive track record in portraying complex characters on screen, Saif is seen as the perfect fit, informs a source close to the director.

“Koratala Siva wanted to cast an actor with an imposing screen presence as it is a menacing character. Saif seemed like a great fit for it. If everything goes to plan, an official announcement will be made soon,” the source tells us.

However, when approached, a representative of the film’s team remained tight-lipped saying, “We can’t confirm or deny this right now. ”

“Vikram and Vijay Sethupathi were also considered for the role, but Saif seemed like a better fit. A huge set is currently being erected because shooting of film is also set to commence soon,” adds the source.

Saif recently expressed his admiration for his potential co-star’s dancing skills, particularly in the song Naatu Naatu, stating, “The South has these incredible dance steps and half-beats that they work with, I think I would have a heart attack if I did that.”

After months of speculation, the makers of director Koratala Siva’s yet-to-be-titled #NTR30 made it official that Janhvi Kapoor will star alongside Jr NTR in the pan-India film. “The fact that (late) Sridevi’s daughter is finally making her debut down South is huge,” a source close to the film’s unit tells us, adding, “The makers were clear from the get-go that they wanted her on board. Talks went on for a while before she was brought on board in February. They’re confident she’ll pull off her role well.”

The Bollywood actress too seemed excited to be finally acting in Telugu, with her favourite actor no less. Sharing her look from the film, looking like a pakka Telugu ammai in a langa voni, she wrote, “It is finally happening. Can’t wait to set sail with my favourite @jrntr. (sic)”.

Shooting for the film will commence soon with the makers aiming for a release in 2024. “Janhvi and Tarak will both join shooting later this month, the film will also be formally launched soon. The aim now is to release the film during April next year in Hindi and other South Indian languages,” says the source.