Simbu not starring in Mani Ratnam's next!

Several controversies have been surrounded even before Raavanan could complete the first week in theatres. Being a modernized adaptation of the Indian epic Ramayana, some of the staunch supporters of the religious group have strongly opposed the film for having depicted the fictionalized Ram with gray shades. But the producers are whooping with ealtion for a record-breaking box office collection of Rs.20 crores, right on the first day. Moreover, the film"s satellite version has been sold for Rs.5 Crores.

Meanwhile, Mani Ratnam has decided to kick-start his next untitled film. Ranbir Kapoor plays the the lead role in Hindi version and it was reported earlier that Silambarasan would play the lead for Tamil Version. But now it seems Simbu would not be donning the lead role for unknown reasons. The rest of the star-cast for Hindi version would be finalized shortly. Unlike Mani's Raavanan, this will be completely shot in the cosmopolitan cities with a major portion being filmed in London.

Veteran cinematographer P.C. Sriram and music director A.R. Rahman have already been signed for this film.