Chennai, Sep 24 (NationPress) Actor Shanthanu Baghyaraj, who portrays a crucial role in director Unni Sivalingam's much-anticipated Tamil-Malayalam bilingual sports action film 'Balti', has revealed that he completely blacked out after a blow to his temple during an action sequence shoot.

In an exclusive conversation with IANS, Shanthanu shared, "The action and sports scenes in Balti are going to be intense and gripping. We all faced a multitude of injuries. Whether it was Shane Nigam or myself, we all endured bruises while preparing for the stunts and later while filming."

The actor further explained, "Kabaddi is a full-contact sport. I experienced a ligament strain while Shane Nigam dealt with a stiff lower back. During a raid, I was supposed to be captured by the opposing team. The cast comprises real pro-Kabaddi league players. In the process, a defender's knee struck my temple, causing me to black out for a brief period."

Shanthanu continued to explain that the entire cast underwent rigorous training to prepare for this sports action drama.

"I had to carry the boys on my back and sprint around the field to build my strength for my character. I play a defender in the Kabaddi team specializing in 'dash'," Shanthanu elaborated.

The film has generated significant excitement among fans and film enthusiasts alike. Initially set to release globally on August 29 for Onam, the film's release has now been rescheduled to September 26.

Shane Nigam takes on the role of Udhayan, a Kabaddi player. This sports drama, centered around Kabaddi, will feature Shane as a daring raider, instilling fear in the hearts of opposing defenses. Notably, this film marks a significant milestone in Shane Nigam's career as it is his 25th film.

In addition to Shane, the film will showcase Preethi Asrani in a prominent role. Importantly, it will also feature director Alphonse Puthren, renowned for the blockbuster Premam, portraying a cold-blooded gangster named Soda Babu.

Actor Shanthanu Baghyaraj plays the character Kumar, while Selvaraghavan portrays Porthamarai Bhairavan.

Written and helmed by Unni Sivalingam, the film is produced by Santhosh T Kuruvilla and Binu George Alexander under the banners of STK Frames and Binu George Alexander Productions.

The cinematography is managed by Alex J Pulickal, with art direction by Ashik S. Notably, the film features music composed by the talented Sai Abhyankkar.

Editing is conducted by Shivkumar V. Panicker, while costumes are designed by Melwy J. The action-packed movie employs the expertise of two stunt masters, Action Sandhosh and Vicky.