Exclusive! Bharath Bopanna is Anand Sankeshwar in Vijay Sankeshwar biopic, Vijayanand

Earlier this year, filmmaker Rishika Sharma had announced her next directorial, a biopic on the life and times of transport and media baron Vijay Sankeshwar. The film, which is being bankrolled by Vijay and his son Anand Sankeshwar as the maiden venture for their VRL Film Productions, has Nihal Rajput playing the former, in the film which traces his life from the 50s to present day.

The film, called Vijayanand, was launched officially over the weekend in Hubbali, where the Sankeshwar family is from and will be shot in original locations and a few sets over the next three months. While the team had earlier announced veteran actor Anant Nag’s casting as Vijay’s father, BG Sankeshwar, we now have it that Brahmagantu star Bharath Bopanna is also a part of the film as the former’s son, Anand.

“It’s quite a privilege to play Anand Sankeshwar in the biopic. In fact, initially, I thought that my role might be limited, considering that this film is about Vijay Sankeshwar, but once I heard the narration, I realized that there’s a lot to do for me too. Anand is, after all, a very important pillar of the VRL groups businesses, especially their media outlets,” says Bharath, whose portions in the film will begin later, adding that he is most excited to be on the set of a film with veteran Anant Nag.

Bharath had earlier taken to social media, posting, “Hello everyone!!! I’m truly blessed to be a part of ‘Vijayanand’ movie… It’s a biopic on Legendary Vijay Sankeshwar sir… It’s a great honour to be playing the role of ANAND SANKESHWAR sir… I’m very sure this movie will inspire each and every single person… Thanku VRL FILM PRODUCTIONS, Vijay Sankeshwar sir, Anand Sankeshwar sir, our director @msrishikasharma mam and @mr_nihalr brother for trusting me and giving this opportunity.”

The muhurtha, which had Golden Star Ganesh in attendance, also saw Crazy Star Ravichandran, who will play a pivotal part in the 70s portion of the film. The makers have not revealed what character he will play, but said that his look in Vijayanand will be a surprise for audiences. The film will also star Shine Shetty, Archana Kottige, Siri Prahlad and Vinaya Prasad in important roles.