Has Shaji Kailas Started Filming ‘Varavu’ with Joju George?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Shaji Kailas is back with a new action thriller.
- Joju George stars in the lead role.
- Filming takes place in the beautiful Munnar highlands.
- Expect thrilling stunts and a compelling story.
- Strong supporting cast enhances the film's appeal.
Thiruvananthapuram, Sept 9 (IANS) Renowned director Shaji Kailas has officially begun the filming of his new action thriller Varavu in the breathtaking highlands of Munnar.
At 60 years old, Kailas is celebrated for his iconic hits from the 1990s and 2000s, including classics like Ekalavyan, Commissioner, Aaraam Thampuran, Narashiman, and Vallietten.
His latest project, Varavu, features Joju George in the lead role and is being produced by Naisy Reji under the banner of Olga Productions, with Jomi Joseph serving as co-producer.
With a generous budget, Varavu aims to be a thrilling entertainer that merges action with widespread appeal.
The film includes nearly six adrenaline-pumping stunt sequences, choreographed by some of South India’s top action masters, including Kalai Kingson, Phoenix Prabhu, Stunt Silva, and Kanal Kannan.
The narrative revolves around Poly, a man from the mountainous regions who ascends to affluence and influence through relentless effort.
At a pivotal moment in his journey, Poly finds himself forced to make a “return”—a varavu—that brings forth a confrontation with past grievances and unresolved conflicts.
Director Kailas is crafting this character into a mass hero designed to strike a chord with the audience.
Varavu features a strong ensemble cast, including Murali Gopy, Arjun Ashokan, Sukanya, Baburaj, Vincy Aloshious, Zainia Iyyappan, Ashwin Kumar, Abhimanyu Shammi Thilakan, Biju Pappan, Bobby Kurian, Aziz Nedumangad, Sreejith Ravi, Deepak Parambol, Kottayam Ramesh, Balaji Sharma, Chali Pala, and Radhika Radhakrishnan.
The screenplay is crafted by A.K. Sajan, who previously collaborated with Kailas on successful films like Chinthamani Kolacase, Red Chillies, and Drona.
The technical team includes S. Saravanan as cinematographer, Shameer Muhammed as editor, Sabu Ram managing art direction, Saji Kattakada overseeing make-up, and Sameera Sanish designing costumes.
Photography is handled by Hari Thirumala, with Syamanthak Pradeep serving as the chief associate director.
Production coordination is managed by Sivan Poojappura and Anil Anshad, with Prathapan Kalliyoor as the production executive and Vinod Mangalath as the production controller.
Shooting will occur across Munnar, Marayoor, Kanthalloor, Theni, and Idukki, with the film set to showcase the rugged allure of Kerala’s highlands as a backdrop for its action-packed storyline.