It's true that Mani Ratnam has signed Arjun for his forthcoming film, but not to play the role of a baddie as reported in a section of media. "I am there in Mani's movie. However, I am not doing the villain’s role," says a happy Action King, as this is the first time for him to work with the ace director.

Tentatively titled 'Pookadai', the film has yesteryear hero Karthik's son Gautham as protagonist. And a guessing game is still on as to who will be the heroine. A tough contest is on between R Parthipan's daughter Keerthana and Radha's younger daughter Thulasi, it is learnt.

Remember Keerthana was a part of Mani's 'Kannathil Muthamittal' when she was a school going child and hence shares a good rapport with the filmmaker. And Radha was recently quoted as saying that her daughter would sure accept an acting offer from Mani Ratnam.

Ace writer Jeyamohan has penned the script for the film, which will have musical score by AR Rahman. Rajeev Menon will crank the camera. "A love story set in the backdrop of Rameswaram, it will deal with the lives of fishermen there," say sources close to the development.