Dhanush Plans 1960s Period Drama with Mrunal Thakur
Female-Centric Story Titled “Devatha” Buzzes as Unique Collaboration Gains Attention
Kranthi Shekar - APR 22, 2026

Actor-director Dhanush is reportedly preparing for another ambitious directorial venture, and this time the project is said to feature Mrunal Thakur in a powerful female-centric role set in the 1960s. The buzz surrounding this film, tentatively titled “Devatha,” has already started generating curiosity among audiences, as the combination of Dhanush’s storytelling style and Mrunal’s expressive performances promises something fresh and emotionally driven.
Dhanush has steadily expanded his creative space in cinema over the years, moving beyond acting to establish himself as a filmmaker with a distinctive voice. His earlier directorial ventures like Pa Paandi and later projects such as Raayan and Idly Kadai showcased his interest in character-driven narratives. Instead of relying solely on commercial formulas, Dhanush has often focused on emotional storytelling and grounded themes, which makes this upcoming period drama particularly intriguing.
The new film is expected to be set in the 1960s, a time marked by social transformation, cultural evolution, and changing family dynamics. Period dramas set in this era often explore themes such as tradition, societal expectations, and personal struggles. With a female-centric storyline, the film is likely to highlight the journey of a strong woman navigating these complexities. Reports suggest that Mrunal Thakur’s character will play the central role, with the narrative unfolding through her experiences and emotional conflicts.
Mrunal Thakur’s involvement has further elevated interest in the project. The actress has built a strong reputation for choosing meaningful roles that allow her to showcase emotional depth. Her performance in Sita Ramam earned widespread appreciation and expanded her fan base across multiple languages. Since then, she has been increasingly seen as a performer capable of carrying substantial roles rather than simply appearing as a supporting character.
The reported title “Devatha” suggests that the film could revolve around a character who embodies strength, compassion, and resilience. Such a role would align well with Mrunal Thakur’s screen presence, which often blends vulnerability with determination. If the project moves forward as expected, the actress may take on one of the most significant roles of her career.
The 1960s backdrop also provides ample scope for rich storytelling. This period offers opportunities to explore cultural values, family structures, and societal norms that shaped people’s lives. Dhanush is known for his attention to emotional details, and setting the story in this era could allow him to present a visually appealing and emotionally layered narrative. From costumes and set design to music and dialogue, period films often rely heavily on authenticity, which increases both the creative challenge and the excitement surrounding the project.
Another aspect that adds interest is the possibility of a strong musical component. Period dramas often benefit from soulful music that reflects the mood of the era. Reports indicate that G. V. Prakash Kumar may be associated with the project. If confirmed, his involvement could enhance the film’s emotional depth, as he is known for delivering memorable melodies and impactful background scores.
The collaboration between Dhanush and Mrunal Thakur also marks a fresh pairing that audiences have not seen before. Both artists come from different cinematic backgrounds, which could result in an interesting creative blend. Dhanush’s grounded storytelling combined with Mrunal’s expressive acting style could help shape a narrative that stands apart from mainstream commercial films.
The project has also drawn attention because of recent speculation linking the two stars beyond professional collaboration. Social media discussions and rumours about their personal lives briefly gained momentum, but Mrunal Thakur addressed these claims and dismissed them, clarifying that her focus remains on her career. Following her response, attention shifted back to the film itself, with fans now more curious about their on-screen collaboration.
Industry observers believe that this project reflects a growing trend in Indian cinema, where female-centric stories are gaining prominence. Instead of traditional hero-driven narratives, filmmakers are increasingly exploring stories led by strong women characters. If executed well, this film could contribute to that shift and offer audiences a refreshing cinematic experience.
Dhanush’s decision to direct a female-focused story also highlights his willingness to experiment. While many directors prefer large-scale commercial entertainers, Dhanush has often leaned toward stories that emphasize emotions and human relationships. A period drama centered around a woman’s journey aligns with this creative approach.
The film is reportedly in the early stages of development, with pre-production discussions underway. Casting for supporting roles and technical crew is expected to follow once the project moves forward. Period films usually require extensive planning, including location scouting, costume design, and production design, which means the film could take time before entering production.
Audience expectations are already building due to the uniqueness of the concept. A 1960s-based female-centric drama directed by Dhanush and starring Mrunal Thakur offers a combination that feels both artistic and commercially appealing. The success of such a project would depend on how effectively the story connects with viewers while maintaining authenticity.
As the buzz continues to grow, fans of both Dhanush and Mrunal Thakur are eagerly waiting for an official announcement. The film’s concept, period setting, and creative collaboration have already sparked discussions across film circles. With a strong narrative foundation and a promising lead performance, the project is shaping up to be one of the more interesting developments in upcoming Indian cinema.











































