Ace director Puri Jagannath, who was once called a blockbuster machine of Telugu films, is trying to make a big comeback. Having faced a tough phase with a series of box office flops, Puri has chosen to reinvent his directorial career by collaborating with one of India’s finest multi-talented actors, Vijay Sethupathi. The news of this project has already made the headlines, but here’s a fresh and exciting update—Puri Jagan has reportedly approached actress Trisha Krishnan to play the female lead.
If she signs on, the movie won’t be merely a reunion of Puri and Trisha after more than a decade but also bring back the unforgettable Trisha-Vijay Sethupathi jodi that stole hearts in the 2018 classic, 96.
Puri Jagan’s Comeback Strategy
Puri Jagannath’s work over the last few years has been one big rollercoaster ride, with films like Liger not quite panning out as projected even though they were surrounded by humongous hype. Both the audience and critics believed that the director needed new types of stories and innovative pairings of stars to get back into shape. It seems like Puri took all that advice to heart.
In a stunning but calculated gesture, he collaborated with Vijay Sethupathi—advertised as “Makkal Selvan”—who has earned national recognition for his raw performances, character acting, and mass appeal across language boundaries. The production, under the banner Puri Connects, is officially announced to be a Pan-India film, and it is being released in a number of languages like Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Malayalam, and Kannada.
The buzz for the movie gained momentum when Tabu was signed on for a crucial role, indicating that the film will have a star-studded power-packed cast. With Tabu, Vijay Sethupathi, and even Trisha already on board, the film is already well on its way to being a multi-starrer with heavy emotional and dramatic quotient.
Trisha: The Missing Piece of the Puzzle?
What’s particularly interesting is the way Puri Jagannath refers to Trisha Krishnan, an actor whose name has enormous significance in the South Indian film world. Trisha, who continues to dominate both Telugu and Tamil cinema with substance-filled roles, is the most suitable candidate for Pan-India narratives.
Puri and Trisha had also collaborated on the action-romance movie Bujjigaadu in 2008, which was a success for its high-voltage entertainment and box office value. If the latest reports are to be believed, this new movie will be a long-awaited reunion of the director and the actress after nearly 16 years.
Moreover, her on-screen combination with Vijay Sethupathi is already legendary as one of the best romantic pairs in recent cinema history. Their on-screen chemistry in 96—a poignant tale of first love gone wrong through lost opportunities, missed chances, and emotional closure—moved hearts and minds of individuals and critics alike. The film is today a cult favorite, and enthusiasts have been clamoring for years for a sequel. Interestingly, a sequel to 96 is also said to be in the making, so this possible new film with Puri is a thrilling reunion before that occurs.
Why This Combo Matters
Pairing Trisha and Vijay Sethupathi with Puri Jagannath’s high-energy storytelling can assist in creating a film experience that will be relatable to both class and mass viewers. While Vijay Sethupathi lends gravity acting weight, Trisha lends warmth, elegance, and emotional resonance—elements that can modulate the high-octane action that Puri has a tendency to infuse into his scripts.
It’s not just the expectation of the cast. The comeback itself in this film is risky for Puri. Industry people say he’s been extremely focussed in the pre-production, with no leeway. According to the industry sources, it’s said the director is not hurrying while writing a layered script which can make all actors shine as much as the theme will also connect strongly with the audience.
Production of the film will probably begin in June 2025, and the team is eagerly anticipating a grand Summer 2026 release, giving the makers ample time for quality shooting, VFX, and planning marketing.
What’s at Stake?
For Puri, this film may be his most significant in recent years. His previous work not just failed to deliver—it harmed his image as a safe director. But by working with stars such as Vijay Sethupathi, Tabu, and possibly Trisha, he is building a film that can transcend and revive him and redefine his directorial approach.
For Trisha, if she does sign up, this movie can be her first Pan-India commercial entertainer following her acclaimed performances in Ponniyin Selvan and Leo. Having her on board would increase the marketability of the film, especially in the Tamil and Telugu regions.
For Vijay Sethupathi, this is another feather to his cap as he continues to leap across industries with behemoth roles, showing that he has the capability of doing mainstream as well as parallel cinema with the same enthusiasm.
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Final Word
While an official confirmation from Trisha is still awaited, the fans are already rooting for this reunion. If she is on board, the film will certainly be one of the most anticipated films of 2026. With three talent giants possibly uniting, this might be the comeback story Puri Jagannath has been hoping for.
The expectation is real, the hopes are high, and the world of cinema might just witness yet another unforgettable Trisha-Vijay Sethupathi romance—this time from the action-hero vision of Puri Jagannath.
Until the official casting announcement is made, all eyes will be on Trisha’s choice. Will she agree and cast magic again? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain—this film is already making waves, and it hasn’t even gone on floors yet.
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