Priya Anand replaces Amala Paul in Kayamkulam Kochunni

Shoot for Nivin Pauly’s Kayamkulam Kochunni is progressing at a rapid pace in Mangalore and nearby areas. This Roshan Andrews directorial is based on the famous highwayman Kayamkulam Kochunni, who was active in the 19th century in Travancore. Award winning writer duo Bobby and Sanjay scripted this film after doing research works for close to two years.

In a sudden development of events, Priya Anand has replaced Amala Paul as the female lead in Kayamkulam Kochunni. Earlier the makers had released sketches of Amala’s character in the film and it was said to be a very challenging role. However, the actress has now opted out due to some unknown reasons.

Priya Anand made her Malayalam debut earlier this year with Prithviraj’s Ezra. She gave a praiseworthy performance in the horror flick. Some of her other noted films include English Vinglish, Ethir Neechal, Fukery, Arima Nambi etc. It will be interesting to see how she prepares herself to play a medieval character.

Kayamkulam Kochunni also stars Sunny Wayne, Babu Antony and Kannada actress Priyanka Thimmesh in prominent roles. The movie will explore several unknown aspects of Kochunni’s life from how he became a rebel to his love life. Nivin is taking a lot of efforts to play this character. He had undergone formal training in horseriding and Kalaripayattu prior to the movie’s shoot.

The technical team of Kayamkulam Kochunni also boasts of some big wigs like Bollywood cinematographer Binod Pradhan, National award winning sound designer PM Satheesh and Firefly Creative Studio, who handled the VFX in films like Baahubali and Enthiran. Gopi Sunder is taking care of the music department.

Gokulam Gopalan of Sri Gokulam Films is investing around Rs 15 crores for this movie. After the ongoing schedule in Mangalore, the team will be heading straight to Sri Lanka for shooting the remaining portions. The makers are planning to release the movie for next summer.