Actor Shanthanu, in a pivotal role as a kabaddi player named Kumar in the upcoming Tamil-Malayalam bilingual sports action drama ‘Balti’, reveals that he has shed over nine kilos for this role.
Looking lean and fit like a genuine kabaddi player in the film, Shanthanu expresses his excitement, saying, “I have lost nine kilos. We had to undergo a training camp in Kabaddi and for stunts.”
Film Storyline
Set in the border region between Kerala and Tamil Nadu, ‘Balti’ follows four boys who use their kabaddi skills to settle scores with rivals. Shanthanu’s character specializes in the kabaddi technique known as ‘Dash’.
Career Highlights
The actor, known for his recent superhit ‘Blue Star’, is making a comeback to Malayalam cinema after nearly 15 years. The film has generated significant interest among fans and film aficionados. Initially slated for an August 29 release coinciding with Onam, the film’s premiere has now been rescheduled to September 26.
Supporting Cast and Characters
Shane Nigam portrays a kabaddi player named Udhayan, depicted as a fearless raider known for instilling fear in opposing teams’ defenses. This project marks a significant milestone for Shane, being his 25th film. Alongside him, actress Preethi Asrani will play a pivotal role, while acclaimed director Alphonse Puthren, recognized for his blockbuster ‘Premam’, takes on the character of a cold-blooded gangster named Soda Babu.
Technical Team and Production
Shanthanu Baghyaraj takes on the character of Kumar, with Selvaraghavan playing Porthamarai Bhairavan. ‘Balti’ is penned and directed by Unni Sivalingam, and produced by Santhosh T Kuruvilla and Binu George Alexander under the banners of STK Frames and Binu George Alexander Productions.
The film boasts cinematography by Alex J Pulickal and art direction by Ashik S. Music is composed by the young sensation Sai Abhyankkar. The editing is handled by Shivkumar V. Panicker, and costumes are designed by Melwy J. The action-packed film features two stunt masters—Action Sandhosh and Vicky.