Mani Ratnam, the filmmaker
Authors: Kumaravel, Jayamohan, and Mani Ratnam

Stars: Jayam Ravi, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, and Vikram
Genre: Family, Drama, and Action
Release: 30 September 2022

The Son of Ponni, a historical fiction book written in Tamil by Indian author Kalki Krishnamurthy, is titled Ponniyin Selvan. From 29 October 1950 to 16 May 1954, it was first published in serial form in the weekly issues of the Tamil magazine Kalki. In 1955, it was combined into five volumes. It covers the early life of Chola prince Arulmozhivarman in roughly 2,210 pages. Kalki made three trips to Sri Lanka to learn more and get inspired.

Ponniyin Selvan is recognised as one of Tamil literature's best books.

[1] The series, which was published weekly in Kalki, had such a strong fan base that it increased the magazine's circulation to 71,366 copies, which was a sizable readership in a newly independent India. 

The novel was still admired today and gained a cult following and fan base among readers of all ages. For its intricate plot, vivid narration, witty dialogue, and representation of the intrigues and power struggles of the Chola kingdom in the tenth century, Ponniyin Selvan has won praise from critics.

The novel is currently being adapted for the big screen by Indian director Mani Ratnam. On September 30, 2022, Ponniyin Selvan: I (PS1), the first installment, was made available. Release day for Ponniyin Selvan: II (PS2) is slated for April 28, 2023.

Vallavaraiyan Vandiyathevan, the valiant, intrepid, and sardonic warrior prince of the Vaanar clan, later served as the commander of the Southern Forces during the rule of Utthama Chola. He is Karikalan's bodyguard and a close friend. Karikalan uses him to invite Sundara Chola in Thanjavur to the freshly constructed golden palace in Kanchi by sending him as a messenger to Sundara Chola. His rash decisions put him and others in danger, but he manages to escape them thanks to cunning and luck. Princess Kundavai is in love with him. Manimekalai, Kandanmaran's sister, only loves him in one direction.
Nandhini is the Pazhuvoor Princess and the spouse of Periya Pazhuvettaraiyar, whose birth and origin were initially questioned. the primary foe of the narrative. She was raised in and was born in Madurai.

Mani Ratnam formally started his film project's production again in the early months of 2019. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Jayam Ravi, Karthi, and Trisha were among the ensemble cast member