Yellamma Heroine Hunt Turning Into A Headache

Balagam movie fame Venu’s ambitious rural drama, Yellamma, was supposed to go on floors much earlier. After Nani and Nithin walked out from the film, they finally got Devi Sri Prasad, the leading composer, making his debut as a hero. But the film is still stuck at the casting stage, and insiders say the biggest reason is DSP’s heroine demand itself.

As per insider rumours, DSP is reportedly very particular that the project should have a “big” and currently happening heroine. That one condition is now slowing the film down big time. Initially, names like Sai Pallavi and Keerthy Suresh were strongly considered. Both names instantly gave the project a big high and curiosity, because of Balagam’s success range earlier. But neither combination materialised. Industry talk says both actresses eventually moved away from the project.

After that, several younger names reportedly came under discussion, including Sreeleela and Bhagyashri Borse. Now, the latest buzz says Mrunal Thakur is almost locked. But interestingly, even that hasn’t been officially confirmed yet. Usually for medium-budget rooted dramas, casting gets wrapped quickly and shoot begins. But Yellamma seems to be chasing a heroine from a long time. Though Dil Raju could get many options easily, they say that Devi Sri Prasad is not easily accepting anyone.

The team apparently wants a heroine who brings both performance weight and pan-India visibility. But then, top heroines are extremely choosy about Telugu projects unless the package is massive. A rural emotional drama with a non-star hero becomes a difficult sell, to attract happening beauties, they say.