Ranveer and Shankar's Anniyan remake illegal, producer issues letter to stop proceedings

On the occasion of Tamil New Year on Wednesday, Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh and filmmaker S. Shankar announced teaming for a Hindi-language remake of 2005 Tamil blockbuster 'Anniyan.' It was a hit psychological action thriller that explores multiple personalities disorder. Now, the producer of Anniyan has sent an open letter, where he accused Shankar of copying and the main plot. In the letter, the producer V Ravichandran of Aaskar Films also urged Shankar to immediately stop proceeding with the remake.He wrote, “I am utterly shocked to know that you are likely to undertake the direction of a Hindi film by adopting the story of the movie Anniyan. You are well aware that I am the producer of the movie. The entire story right was purchased by me from writer Sujatha for which full payment was done. I am the whole and sole owner of the rights. Any adaptation or remaking or copying the main plot is totally illegal.”

He further added, “You are hearby advised to immediately stop proceeding any further on the same, due to the illegal copying of the story line for which the entire rights are held by me. Please note that a legal notice follows this letter.” Anniyan, directed by Shankar, had Chiyaan Vikram in the lead role, while Sadha was seen as the leading lady. The film, which was about a man with multiple personality disorder was a blockbuster and it was lauded by fans and critics alike. Director Shankar is yet to react to producer Aascar Ravichandran's letter. Speaking about the collaboration, the Bajirao actor earlier said, "I am blessed to have this opportunity to be a part of the spectacular cinematic vision of Shankar sir. He is an exception to the norm, a true disruptor who has shown us that no vision is large enough to achieve on screen. I had always hoped and dreamed that I would get a chance to collaborate with him, and I have a strong feeling that we will create magic together."

Ranveer shared that to lead a film like "Anniyan" is a dream come true for any artiste". He also shared the news on social media."Vikram Sir, one of our country's finest talents, an artiste who I hugely admire, gave a colossal performance in the original, one that can never be matched. I can only hope that my interpretation and rendition of the part also connects with audiences in the same way," he said. The pan-Indian entertainer is slated to go on the floors in mid 2022. Anniyan', which co-starred Vikram, Sadha and Vivekh, was released in 2005.Meanwhile, on the professional front, Ranveer will soon be seen in the upcoming sports drama '83' where he will share screen space with his wife and superstar Deepika Padukone. The film is about India's big win at the 1983 World Cup. "83", directed by Kabir Khan.In the movie, Ranveer will essay the role of legendary cricketer Kapil Dev, while Deepika will play his wife Romi Bhatia. Singh also has 'Jayeshbhai Jordaar' and 'Cirkus' in the pipeline