After directing a critically acclaimed film like 'Mithunam', Tanikella Bharani is getting ready for his next project. He will direct Sunil in a film, based on the story of Lord Shiva devotee, Kannappa.

This film, which is tentatively titled as 'Bhaktha Kannappa', will start next year. Talking about the project in an interview to Indiaglitz, Tanikella Bharani says, "The script work of the film is currently going on and we will probably start the project next year. Sunil will perfectly suit the role of Kannappa. When I narrated a normal story to Sunil, he asked me why don't I come up with a story like Annamayya. I said then that as he has a well built physique now, 'Bhaktha Kannappa' story is very apt for him. He is very happy with the idea and immediately agreed to act in the film".

Answering a question how much time he will take to complete the film, Bharani says, "It is a one year project and the movie will be released in 2016".

Some movies have come before, based on the story of Kannappa and one of the most famous films is Krishnam Raju's 'Bhaktha Kannappa', released in 1976. This film, directed by Bapu was a huge hit then.