After an action-filled Chanakya, director Venkatesh is wielding the megaphone for Petrol starring Prashanth in Hyderabad.

Asked about the movie, Venkatesh says, 'I recently came across a youth in Royapuram, whom the locals called him 'Petrol'. When asked, they said he is an energetic youth who takes up the troubles of others and finds a solution for it. It inspired me to start this movie'

There were indications that Venkatesh's next film would feature Ajith in the lead role.

When asked, Venkatesh says, 'it is not certain. In fact it was actor Sarath Kumar who expressed his desire that Ajith should work in my direction. I hope that this will become a reality one day'.

On Petrol, Venkatesh adds: 'the movie carries a strong message against violence. We have approached Laila to play the heroine.'

Petrol will be completed and would be made ready for release early next year.