Rajinikanth reveals Aishwarya Rai was original choice for 'Padayappa'; Superstar was willing to wait 2-3 years for actress to play Neelambari

Rajinikanth reveals Aishwarya was first choice

The veteran star candidly confessed his first choice for the role of Neelambari. “We wanted Aishwarya Rai to do the character, " he admitted and went on to reveal, "We tried to reach out to her after a lot of difficulties.

"Interestingly enough, he even shared that had the actress accepted the film role, "I was willing to wait even 2–3 years because that character was like that. It was imperative for the role to click."

Aishwarya rejected role

Sadly for the actor, Ash was reportedly not too keen on the film. He said, "We heard that she was not interested."After Ash turned down the role, several leading names from Sridevi to Madhuri Dixit, were considered for the part.

However, Rajinikanth said the team was searching for a performer with the “power in the eyes” and the “arrogance” needed to embody the character. That was when Director KS Ravikumar suggested Ramya.Rajinikanth and Aishwarya eventually collaborated years later in the sci-fi hit 'Enthiran'.

'Padayappa' sequel in the works

The actor also used the video to confirm that a sequel is officially in the works, titled 'Neelambari: Padayappa 2'. The superstar also shared that his team was discussing the story of the new film and that they would proceed with making it once they lock a script.