Samantha signed up for Maniratnam's `Pookadai'

Telugu industry's prominent female lead Samantha has been signed up for Mani Ratnam's new film titled Pookadai. Sources close to her confirmed that she has given bulk 45 days for the first schedule. Samantha is excited of the role. After her stunning success in Telugu with Dookudu, Maniratnam will cast her opposite a newcomer.

Shooting of the film would begin from January end. Karthik's son Gautham will be debuting as hero.

The heroine hunt for Pookadai has been going on for months. First it was said that Kamal Haasan's younger daughter Akshara Haasan and Parthipan's daughter Keerthana was approached. Then it was said Mani Ratnam met Thulasi, younger daughter of yesteryear heroine Radha and sister of 'Ko' Karthika.

The Mumbai press said Sonam Kapoor will be the heroine, finally it is now almost certain that Samantha will be the heroine.