Director A M R Ramesh, who is at present busy making 'Vana Yudham', a biopic on forest brigand Veerappan, has turned an actor. He is playing a crucial role in the bilingual movie, which is taking shape fast.

According to sources, Ramesh is playing Gurunath, a close aide to Veerappan. "It is an important character as Gurunath was the one who played a crucial part in Veerappan's life. The director has given his best to it," they say.

Kishore plays the lead role of Veerappan, while Arjun will be seen as Special Task Force Cief Vijayakumar. Vijayalakshmi of 'Chennai 600028' fame is playing Veerappan's wife Muthulakshmi, while veteran actress Jayachitra is playing a role inspired by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa.

The movie is simultaneously being made in Kannada. Says Arjun, "I was initially apprehensive about doing the project. But the homework by Ramesh stunned me. He has done an extensive research about Veerappan and his life."

Vanayudham Trailer