Ajith's 'Thala 56': Hansika, Samantha, Shruti Haasan in Race to Bag the Film

Even as Ajith is busy with his next movie directed by Gautham Menon, the post-production works on his 56th film are on. The Thala will be joining hands with Siva again after their hit film "Veeram". The casting process for the heroine has begun and several top names are being considered. Well, Hansika Motwani, Samantha and Shruti Haasan are in the race to bag the project.

The buzz says that Hansika Motwani is the top contender to bag the forthcoming Tamil film, which is presently called by the name "Thala 56". The actress, who always dreamt of working with Ajith Kumar, is unlikely to turn down the project even though she is busy with multiple projects. Samantha and Shruti Hassan are the two actresses, whose names are doing rounds to play the female lead in the flick.

Earlier, there were reports that Vidya Balan and director Siva's favourite Tamanna Bhatia were approached. But both the actresses had denied the rumours. Along with female lead, the director has been finalising other cast and crew. Santhanam, who was recently seen in Ajith's "Veeram", has been reportedly signed to play a comedian role.

Rumours are also doing rounds that director Lingusamy's successful production house Thirrupathi Brothers will bankroll the project. It may be recalled that the director had earlier worked with Ajith Kumar in "Ji", which was a hit at the box office.

As far as the technical team is concerned, the "Veeram" team comprising of Devi Sri Prasad (music department), Vetri (cinematography), Kasi Vishwanathan (editor) and Silva (action director) have been retained for "Thala 56". The director is giving final touches to the script and the movie is expected to take off in December 2014. The makers of the film are eyeing Diwali 2015 for its release. We have to note that Siva and Ajith's earlier film "Veeram" was a hit among family audience.

Meanwhile, Ajith Kumar is busy with his upcoming movie "Thala 55". The film will hit the screens in November 2014.