Raghava Lawrence to direct Akshay Kumar in Kanchana Hindi remake

After making an impressive Tamil debut with Shankar -Rajinikanth film 2.O, Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar is all set to act in the Hindi remake of choreographer, actorand filmmaker Raghava Lawrence’s Tamil blockbuster flick Kanchana - Muni 2, a horror comedy released in 2011. This also marks Lawrence’s foray into Bollywood as a director.

Speaking to DC, Lawrence spills the beans about how he convinced Akki, about Big B and Sanjay Dutt being considered for the crucial transgender role played by Sarath Kumar in Tamil, the changes made in the script, etc.

“I and Akshay Kumar have been in talks for one and a half years toying with the idea of remaking Kanchana in Hindi. And after several discussions finally, it has come to shape. I am improvising the script to suit the present times, Akshay’s image and also Bollywood audiences taste,” he says.

Ask him about the heroine as well as the key character of a trans-woman essayed by Sarathkumar in Tamil and he says, “I am leaving to Mumbai in tomorrow to finalise everything. As far as the star who would reprise Sarathkumar’s role, the makers have a few options including Amitabh Bachchan and Sanjay Dutt in mind. But, it is all in the initial stages. Once I reach there, we would discuss and would announce in a week’s time (smiles).”

Ask him as how he feels about debuting in Bollywood, the filmmaker says humbly, “I started off as a dancer and yes, my aim was to become a choreographer. There were times when I have dreamt of at least being part of a group dance in Hindi films. Later, I turned an actor and director. Today, I am directing a big star in a Hindi film. It is heartwarming and I would say it is all blessings from Raghavendra Swamy and my mother.” Costume and production designer and Sabina and Tushaar Kapoor are bankrolling the movie.