Padman poster: Akshay takes centre stage in this woman empowerment project

Finally, the poster of Akshay Kumar's Padman made it. The makers of R Balki's film, based on the life of activist Arunachalam Muruganathan, released the first poster of the film. While the film is being touted as being women-centric, there is no sight of its female leads yet. The poster features the hero, Akshay Kumar, front and centre. 

Akshay Kumar unveils Sonam Kapoor and Radhika Apte's look from Padman

Dressed in white kurta and pyjama, Akshay comes across as the simple, desi man taking on the whole world. The poster seems to capture the rise of a hero — a simple man taking on a larger than life challenge — through the triumphant posing of Akshay's hero. 

The tagline of the poster reads 'Superhero Hai Ye Pagla' (This madman is a superhero), and it fits right in with Akshay's image. The actor, who has taken on some challenging roles with Toilet: Ek Prem Katha (2017) being the latest, will play the role of a man looking to impart education on the use of sanitary napkins and importance of mentrual hygiene to women and families across India's villages. 

Padman is based on Twinkle Khanna's book, The Legend of Lakshmi Prasad, which in turn was based on the life of activist Arunachalam Muruganathan. The story will follow Muruganathan's attempts to revolutionize menstrual hygiene through the use of low-cost sanitary napkins. 

The film also stars Sonam Kapoor and Radhika Apte in pivotal roles. Produced by KriArj Entertainment, Mrs Funnybone Movies, and Hope Productions, the film is set to be released on 26 January 2018.