(This article is authored by Alar)

Ponniyin Selvan 2  is the second instalment of Mani Ratnam’s epic period drama which is all set to hit the screens on April 28, 2023. The film is set in the 10th century AD and revolves around the historical events that led to the rise of Rajaraja Chola I, one of the greatest rulers of south India.

The film ended with the news of Arunmozhi Varman’s death reached the Chola land and everyone was shocked and devastated. And the climax portion showcased the heat of Aditha Karikalan who swore to destroy Nandini and her allies for their treachery, as he returns to his home land. 

The first part of the film introduced the main characters and their conflicts, such as, Aditha Karikalan (Vikram), the crown prince of Chola empire, who is ambitious, ruthless as he had a mysterious history with Nandhini, who eventually witnessed him during the assault of Veerapandiyan.

Vallavaraiyan Vandiyadevan (Karthi), a brave and loyal warrior of the Vana clan, who is sent by Aditha Karikalan to deliver a message to his sister Kundavai (Trisha Krishnan) in Pazhayarai. Nandini (Aishwarya Rai Bachchan), the wife of Periya Pazhuvettaraiyar (R. Sarathkumar), the prime minister of Chola empire. 

One of the most intriguing storylines is Nandini's plot to overthrow the Cholas. Her determination and cunning make her a formidable opponent, but her ultimate success remains uncertain. Can Nandini bring down the Cholas and exact her revenge on Veerapandiyan?.

Aditha Karikalan's innocence also hangs in the balance, and his fate could have a major impact on the future of the Chola empire. Meanwhile, Vandiyadevan and Arunmozhi Varman face their own challenges as they navigate the dangerous territory of enemy territory.   Eventhough, the trailer gave us the hope by showing glimpses of the Chola prince in a Buddhist temple territory. But in what ways will Arunmozhi Varman lay the groundwork for his reign as Rajaraja Chola I?. 

With so many moving parts, it's impossible to predict how everything will unfold. As a whole, the first part of the film sets up a complex web of political intrigue and personal conflicts that will undoubtedly come to a head in the second installment. Viewers are left with many questions and are eagerly anticipating the resolution of these storylines.

Ponniyin Selvan 2 is based on the novel by Kalki Krishnamoorthy. The film boasts of a star-studded cast that includes Vikram, Karthi, Jayam Ravi, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Trisha Krishnan, Sobhita Dhulipala, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Prakash Raj, Vikram Prabhu, R. Sarathkumar, Prabhu and many more.

Ponniyin Selvan 2 is produced by Lyca Productions and Madras Talkies, and has music by A.R. Rahman. The film is expected to be a visual spectacle with cinematography by Ravi Varman and editing by A. Sreekar Prasad. The film will release in Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada languages. Amazon Prime Video bought the digital streaming rights, where Sun network bought the satellite rights.