Speculation is gaining momentum in Kollywood that filmmaker S Shankar may have approached Dhanush for a pivotal role in his long-planned historical epic Velpari. While no official confirmation has been made, industry sources suggest early-stage discussions regarding the actor’s availability are underway.

Regarded as Shankar’s dream project, Velpari is expected to be mounted as a large-scale dual-hero film. Earlier reports had linked actors Vikram and Ranveer Singh to the venture, but the casting never materialised. Recent buzz intensified after Shankar attended the pooja ceremony of Dhanush’s upcoming film D55, with insiders also hinting at possible production discussions involving R Take Studios.

The film is based on Veera Yuga Nayagan Vel Pari, the celebrated historical novel by Su Venkatesan, which chronicles the life of the legendary Tamil ruler Vel Pari — remembered for his bravery, governance and extraordinary generosity. Revered as one among the “Kadai Ezhu Vallalgal,” his legacy continues to hold a significant place in Tamil history and folklore.

Though developments remain unofficial, expectations are already high around Shankar’s ambitious adaptation, which the director has previously described as a project envisioned on a grand international scale.