Mani Ratnam's epic Ponniyin Selvan goes on the floor with new poster

Finally, after a wait, the new year marks a new beginning for Mani Ratnam's much awaited take on a classic of Tamil literature — Ponniyin Selvan.

The film, an epic in all respects, will feature an ensemble cast that includes Vikram, Karthi, Jayam Ravi, Amala Paul, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Trisha, Sarath Kumar and Prabhu, with AR Rahman providing the musical score.

The latest posters from the film capture the essence of both the period and the conflict that create the foundation for the epic romance.

The film is the first period and historical drama to be attempted by Mani Ratnam. Based on the popular Tamil novel by Kalki Krishnamurthy, the story follows the journey of Arulmozhivarman, who rose from being a soldier to becoming Raja Raja Chola I.

The story has been one of Mani Ratnam's dream projects, which he had spoken of back in 2013. However, the film was later shelved. The new film will be co-produced by Madras Talkies and Lyca Productions. The film will also have familiar Mani Ratnam collaborators like production designer Thotta Tharani, editor Sreekar Prasad and cinematographer Ravi Varman, besides Rahman.

No release date has been set for the film as yet.