Samantha out of Mani Ratnam's 'Kadal'

Actress Samantha has reportedly opted out of director Mani Ratnam’s ‘Kadal’ currently under production. The reason for her action is not clear.

Mani Ratnam had zeroed in on her for the lead role after a great deal of deliberations. He wanted to have a new face who had not acted in any film before or even seen in filmy circles. Many names, including those of Radha’s second daughter (Karthika’s younger sister) and director/actor R. Parthepan’s daughter Keerthana were doing the rounds. Mani finally selected Samantha to play opposite newcomer Gautham, who is the son of actor Karthik. Samantha was exulted when she signed the film. She had said it was her dream project and was privileged to work with a director of the stature of Mani Ratnam.

‘Kadal’ is one of the most eagerly awaited films of the year and according to unit sources, a considerable portion of the film has already been shot. Mani has put in great efforts and painstakingly developed the film. He even joined A.R. Rahman on a boat ride on the waves of the sea off Kerala coast to work on a song.

In this background, Samantha’s dropping out of the project when the film is making rapid strides has come as a surprise. She recently boasted that she is No.1 with eight releases having been lined up for this year and at least four more projects in her kitty. Notable among the films under production in which Samantha features is Goutham Menon’s ‘ Neethane En Ponvasantham’.

A source in ‘Kadal’ unit is reported to have said,”It’s still not clear as to why Samantha who was excited about working with Mani Ratnam has chosen to opt out of the project. Since she is doing several big projects in Tamil and Telugu, she may be facing problems with dates.”

With Samantha opting out of ‘Kadal’ Mani Ratnam will have to again hunt for a replacement.

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Kadal

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