Swayambhu: Nikhil Siddhartha transforms into a warrior for his next pan-Indian film

Nikhil Siddhartha is on a film-announcement spree post the success of Karthikeya 2. While he awaits the release of the spy thriller Spy later this June, he’s announced two other pan-Indian projects in the last fortnight. One among them is a V Mega Pictures production, The India House, jointly produced by Ram Charan, Vamsi Reddy (of UV Creations) in collaboration with Abhishek Agarwal Arts.

Earlier this week, he’s confirmed another project - a sweeping period drama titled Swayambhu. The film, to be produced by Bhuvan and Sreekar under Pixel Studios, is directed by debutant Bharat Krishnamachari. The first look of Swayambhu has Nikhil sporting long hair, as he holds a spear and a shield, playing a ferocious warrior on the battlefield. He seems quite apt for the part and it looks like he’s worked hard for his physical makeover.

A special video was also released by the team that offers a peek into the film’s backdrop. Swayambhu promises to transport you back in time, showcasing a king’s odyssey as he changes the face of an empire. The name of the warrior remains unannounced. The shoot of the high-budget project will go on floors this August and it’s slated to be Nikhil’s most-expensive film to date. A top notch crew is on board already.

While Manoj Paramahamsa cranks the camera for the same, Ravi Basrur scores the music. M Prabhaharan is the production designer and Vasudev Muneppagari is the dialogue writer. Vijay Kamisetty and GT Anand co-produce the film that’ll be presented by noted producer Tagore Madhu. Other details around the cast, release date and the backdrop will be announced shortly.

Karthikeya 2 was a game-changer in Nikhil’s career and the actor is making the most of the advantage he’s gained with its success and the widespread fan base. Consistency has been one of the biggest assets in the career of the Happy Days actor and one hopes he doesn’t lose sight of it as he raises the stakes.