Shraddha Kapoor in talks for Allu Arjun-Lokesh Kanagaraj biggie, here's what we know

A few days ago, Allu Arjun announced his 23rd film with star director Lokesh Kanagaraj, and fans were super thrilled. The pre-production of the film is happening at a brisk pace, and we at OTTplay have learned that Shraddha Kapoor is in talks to play the female lead. 

Who is the female lead in Allu Arjun-Lokesh Kanagaraj film?

Talks have already been initiated, and the financials are being discussed as of now. A source close to the unit has confirmed that discussions are indeed on, but the star heroine is yet to be locked. If Shraddha comes on board, it will be a great casting choice, as she has never romanced Allu Arjun before, making it a fresh and solid pairing.

Lokesh Kanagaraj is known for his gritty action dramas, and in one of his recent interviews in Chennai, he revealed that his next film with Allu Arjun is his dream project and will shock one and all. 

Which film is Allu Arjun currently shooting for?

At present, Allu Arjun is shooting for his new film under the direction of Atlee. The film is halfway through its shoot and features Deepika Padukone as the female lead. He is expected to wrap up the shoot by the end of July 2026 and will then take Lokesh’s film on floors by the end of the same year.

Shraddha Kapoor strikes big with Stree 2

Shraddha Kapoor made a solid comeback with Stree 2 and is now signing back-to-back films after a long break. She made her Telugu debut with the Prabhas starrer Saaho, which ended as a flop, but her chemistry with Prabhas was loved by audiences. 

On the other hand, Allu Arjun is in no mood to slow down and is signing his projects carefully. He also has a film lined up with Sandeep Reddy Vanga, which is expected to go on floors in 2028, as per early reports.

Post the success of Pushpa 2, Allu Arjun’s craze has gone to the next level. All his upcoming films will now release on a pan-India scale, putting Lokesh Kanagaraj under immense pressure to deliver. His last film with Rajinikanth ended as a disappointment and attracted heavy trolling. 

As a result, he carries a huge responsibility to score a big hit with Allu Arjun. For now, he is busy with the casting process. Stay tuned for more updates on this project.

Also Read: AA 23: Lokesh Kanagaraj joins forces with Allu Arjun for a biggie, here’s when shoot will start 

Allu Arjun film FAQs

Q. Who is the music director of AA23?

A. Anirudh Ravichander is the music director for AA23, helmed by noted Tamil director Lokesh Kanagaraj

Q. Who is the heroine of AA23?

A. The makers are in talks with Hindi star Shraddha Kapoor to play the lead

Q. What will AA23 start?

A. AA 23, starring Allu Arjun, will start shooting in 2026.