Despite newcomers playing the lead roles, Mani Ratnam has ensured that his forthcoming film 'Kadal' turns out to be a grand affair. He has spent a whopping Rs 50 crore on the project.

This has been confirmed by ace writer Jeyamohan, who has penned the script for 'Kadal'. "Yes, it is true that Kadal is being made on Rs 50 crore budget," he said.

This is for the first time such a huge amount has been spent on a project with freshers in the lead. "I was given immense freedom while penning script for this film. I am happy about that," Jeyamohan added.

Karthik's son Gautham and Radha's younger daughter Thulasi play lead roles in 'Kadal'. Arjun and Aravind Swamy are also there. The film revolves around the lives of fishermen, and has music by A R Rahman.