Gunasekhar's epic drama Shaakuntalam, starring Samantha, postponed for now; here's why

Samantha, whose Kaathu Vaakula Rendu Kaadhal released to mixed responses earlier this year, is awaiting the release of the new-age thriller Yashoda, the rom-com Kushi and the epic-drama Shaakuntalam next. While Yashoda's release date isn't out yet, Shaakuntalam was to hit theatres on November 4 with Kushi releasing for Christmas. However, it looks like Shaakuntam won't release as per plans. The makers of the Gunasekhar-directorial confirmed the reason behind the delay over social media.

"We aim to give a bigger experience with Shaakuntalam and immerse you in the 'World of Shaakuntalam’ for which we as a team felt 3D would be a brilliant way. To facilitate this, we would be taking some time to put forth and so, will be unable to meet the earlier announced date of release. We thank the support and love showered upon us, from around the world, hoping for your support in this too! We will be announcing the new release date soon," the producers Sri Venkateswara Creations, Gunaa Teamworks wrote.

Shaakuntalam will now release in the first half of 2023 in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam and Kannada across 2D and 3D. The new release date will be announced soon. The film is based on legendary poet Kalidasa’s Sanskrit play Abhijnana Shakuntalam and revolves around Shakuntala and King Dushyant from Mahabharata. Dev Mohan is the male lead in the epic whose star cast comprises Sachin Khedekar, Kabir Bedi, Mohan Babu, Prakash Raj, Madhubala, Gautami, Aditi Balan, Ananya Nagalla and Jisshu Sengupta.

Allu Arjun's daughter Allu Arha will be making her acting debut with the film, playing the younger version of Prince Bharata. Produced by Neelima Guna, the film is written and directed by Gunasekhar. Dil Raju is presenting the film under Sri Venkateswara Creations in collaboration with Gunaa Teamworks. Gunasekhar had last directed Rudhramadevi and his action-entertainer Okkadu released in theatres to fantastic responses across the globe.