Kochi, Jul 19: Malayalam superstar Mammootty will essay a double role in the romantic tragedy 'Balyakalasakhi', (childhood companion), shooting of which will commence on August 5.
The actor would portray the role of Majeed and that of his father in the film, which is an adaptation of Vaikom Mohammed Basheer's novel of the same name. The actress who would play the role of 'Suhara' has been selected, the sources said.
Bengali actor Parambrata Chatterjee, who came to the limelight after starring in Sujoy Ghosh's 'Kahaani', will do a major role. Actress Seema Biswas has also been roped in for the film, which will also have actors Biju Menon, KPAC Lalitha and Mamukoya in various roles.
The film, directed and scripted by Pramod Payyannur, will be shot at Perumbalam island near Vaikom and Kolkatta and is expected to be completed this year itself. The story revolves around Majeed and Suhara, who are in love with each other from childhood. Four auditions had been held in Kerala and abroad to select the remaining cast from about 4000 applicants and 35 were selected.
A camp to train the actors was also inaugurated today by director Ranjith while the official website of the film was launched at a function here by actor Fahad Fasil. Theatre and film actor Murali Menon will be among those imparting an eight day training to actors. Well known film directors Sibi Malayil, Kamal, Shaymaprasad, Pramod Payannoor, veteran actress KPAC Lalitha, dubbing artiste Bhagyalakshmi and cartoonist Yesudas will take sessions during the training. The idea of the workshop was Payyannur's brainchild.
This is the first time in India that 'mind frames', a fun filled mental training package designed for the corporate sector, is being provided to actors. In 1967, a film adaptation starring Prem Nazir as Majeed and Sheela as Suhara had been launched by Sasikumar. Basheer had written the script and dialogues of the film.
