Ajay Devgn to play great philosopher and economist Chanakya in Neeraj Pandey’s next

Superstar Ajay Devgn has announced his collaboration with filmmaker Neeraj Pandey for an upcoming movie based on the life and teachings of the 4th century BC Indian scholar, royal advisor, economist, philosopher and political strategist Chanakya.

The two time National Film Awards winner will play the lead role of Chanakya in the movie, which will be made under the banner of  Plan C Studios, a joint venture of Neeraj Pandey’s Friday Filmworks and the Anil Ambani led Reliance Entertainment.

Announcing the project, Devgn wrote on Twitter, “Looking forward to playing #Chanakya, a film about one of the greatest thinkers in Indian History, directed by @neerajpofficial @RelianceEnt @FFW_Official @PlanC_Studios @ShitalBhatiaFFW.”

Neeraj Pandey, known for critically and commercially successful films like A Wednesday (2008), Special 26 (2013) and Baby (2015) is teaming up with Devgn for the very first time in his career spanning a decade.

In his statement, the director says he is sure that audiences will love Ajay in the role of Chanakya. “I have been developing this film on Chanakya for some time now. It is an exciting work of passion for me, and I am sure audiences will love Ajay’s portrayal of the visionary genius.”

Ajay adds he is looking forward to playing the great thinker in the movie. “I am truly looking forward to playing Chanakya. I have observed Neeraj Pandey’s work closely and I know Neeraj will tell this story with the clarity and passion that it needs to be told.”

Such details as the female lead and other star cast along with the release date of the film are yet to be announced.