Actor Shanthanu Baghyaraj plays a pivotal character in director Unni Sivalingam’s eagerly awaited Tamil-Malayalam bilingual sports action drama ‘Balti’. He recently revealed that he experienced a complete blackout after sustaining a blow to his temple while filming an intense action sequence.
Rigorous Action Sequences
In an exclusive interview, Shanthanu shared, “The action and sports sequences in Balti will be intense and gripping. We all sustained several injuries. Be it Shane (Shane Nigam) or me, everyone suffered bruises while training for the stunts and filming.”
He explained, “Kabaddi is a full-contact sport. I suffered a ligament strain, whereas Shane Nigam had a stiff lower back. Once, during a raid, I was supposed to be captured by the opposing team. The players in the film are all real pro-Kabaddi league players. While executing this, one of the defender’s knees hit my temple, causing me to black out for some time.”
Training Regimen
Shanthanu also mentioned the rigorous training the entire cast underwent for this sports action drama. “I had to carry the boys on my back and run around the field to strengthen my back for my role. I play a defender in the Kabaddi unit specializing in ‘dash,’ ” he explained.
Release Schedule
The film has generated significant interest among fans and film enthusiasts. Originally set to release worldwide on August 29 for Onam this year, the premiere has now been rescheduled to September 26.
Character Insights
Shane Nigam portrays a Kabaddi player named Udhayan, depicting a fearless raider who instills fear in opposing teams’ defenses. Notably, this film marks an important milestone in Shane Nigam’s career as it is his 25th film.
Alongside Shane Nigam, the film features Preethi Asrani in a significant role. Moreover, notable director Alphonse Puthren, known for his blockbuster ‘Premam’, will portray a cold-blooded gangster named Soda Babu.
Shanthanu Baghyaraj plays the character Kumar, while Selvaraghavan takes on the role of Porthamarai Bhairavan.
Production Details
Written and directed by Unni Sivalingam, the film is produced by Santhosh T Kuruvilla and Binu George Alexander under their banners, STK Frames and Binu George Alexander Productions.
Cinematography is handled by Alex J Pulickal, with art direction from Ashik S. The movie features music by young sensation Sai Abhyankkar and is edited by Shivkumar V. Panicker, with costumes designed by Melwy J. Notably, the film has two stunt masters: Action Sandhosh and Vicky, enhancing its high-action appeal.