Ronth's Shahi Kabir considered Dileesh Pothan for Ela Veezha Poonchira | Here's why it did not happen

Ronth director Shahi Kabir considered casting Dileesh Pothan for his debut directorial feature Ela Veezha Poonchira as well. Now, he explains why it did not happen.

Shahi Kabir, Dileesh Pothan

Shahi Kabir is gearing up for the release of his second directorial venture, Ronth, which stars Dileesh Pothan and Roshan Mathew in the lead roles. But did you know that the noted writer-director had considered casting Dileesh Pothan for his debut directorial feature Ela Veezha Poonchira as well. Now, Ronth director Shahi Kabir, who makes mostly cop films, explains why it did not happen. Read on…

Shahi Kabir on casting Dileesh Pothan in Ela Veezha Poonchira

Shahi Kabir made Ela Veezha Poonchira in 2022, which also fetched him the Kerala State Film Award for Debut Director. The film, which stars Soubin Shahir, narrated the tale of cops posted on duty on a hilltop. Now in a recent interview with Baradwaj Rangan for Galatta Plus, Shahi Kabir said that he in fact wanted to cast Dileesh Pothan, a noted filmmaker himself for the role, but was unsure of approaching him as it was his debut film.

“We considered Pothan. But to approach him and tell the story while doing my first film… I wasn't sure how to deal with him. So, that first option of ours, we let it go. We were like, "No... what if this goes wrong?" We had that kind of doubt,” said Shahi Kabir, who has also scripted the recent hit movie Officer on Duty.

Ela Veezha Poonchira plot

The film revolves around police constable Madhu, posted on duty at the hilltop, along with another cop Sudhi. The twist begins when the body parts of a woman are found scattered in their area. The film is noted for its shocking climax.

Soubin Shahir stars as police constable Madhu, while Sudhi Koppa is also seen in another key role.

Ronth release

Meanwhile, Shahi Kabir’s Ronth is gearing up for release on June 13, 2025. Am Ah actor Dileesh Pothan and Roshan Mathew are seen as night patrolling cops. Shahi Kabir, who had penned popular movies such as Joseph and Nayattu, had earlier revealed that Ronth is more based on his personal experiences, while his other films are more commercial. Sudhi Koppa, Krisha Kurup, Nandanunni, Lakshmi Menon, Arun Cherukavil and Baby Nandhootty are also part of this film.

Also read: Am Ah review: Dileesh Pothan's suspense drama holds your attention despite the inconsistencies

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