Indian cinema is set to break new ground with Singha, the country’s first full-length feature film to feature a real lion.
Directed by K.C. Ravi Devan and produced by V. Mathiyalagan under Etcetera Entertainment in collaboration with Thithir Film House, the ambitious project is being made simultaneously in five languages – Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi.
The film stars Shrrita Rao, known for her roles in Lenin Pandian and Kumki 2, who took on the challenging lead role after others declined to act alongside a live lion, reported newsbytes.com.
“When we approached actresses, many admired the story but hesitated due to the risks. Shrrita bravely stepped up and delivered an outstanding performance,” said director Ravi Devan, a former assistant to Kamal Haasan.
Shot across Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Zambia, Goa, Tenkasi, and Visakhapatnam, the production followed strict safety guidelines for working with animals.
In addition to the lion, the film features dramatic sequences with 300 wolves, with actress Leesha Eclairs (1945, Jawan) cast in a pivotal negative role.
“We searched extensively for an actress fearless enough to act with wolves. Leesha brought that courage and authenticity,” Devan added.
With its international locations, daring animal sequences, and pan-India release, Singha aims for worldwide resonance. “Since the story is global, we are making Singha as a pan-Indian film. We believe audiences of all ages will enjoy it,” said Devan.
The technical crew includes music by Amrish, dialogues by Kannan Selvaraj, cinematography by P.G. Muthiah, production design by Hasini Pavithra, editing by Tamil Arasan, and stunts by Stunner Sam.
Mathiyalagan, producing his 14th film, is confident Singha will be a landmark in Indian cinema. “It’s not just a movie – it’s an experience of courage, culture, and cinematic innovation,” he said.
