The excitement around Allu Arjun’s much-awaited collaboration with Kollywood director Lokesh Kanagaraj continues to grow with each passing day. Ever since the project was officially announced during the Sankranti festival, expectations have skyrocketed, even though the film is yet to go on floors. Tentatively titled AA23, the film marks a powerful pan-Indian combination and is expected to begin shooting later this year after Allu Arjun completes his commitments with director Atlee.

Adding more fuel to the buzz, a new casting update has caught the attention of fans and industry circles alike. According to media reports, Bollywood star Shraddha Kapoor is being considered as the female lead opposite Allu Arjun, marking their first on-screen collaboration. It is said that director Lokesh Kanagaraj has personally approached the actress with a bound script, hoping to rope her in for this high-budget action entertainer.

Shraddha Kapoor is currently enjoying a strong success streak after delivering a blockbuster with Stree 2. Over the years, she has built a solid fan base across both Bollywood and South Indian markets, making her a familiar and bankable face nationwide. Reports suggest that Lokesh Kanagaraj is keen on casting her to elevate the film’s pan-India appeal and create strong anticipation, especially in North India. Her inclusion could significantly enhance the market reach and visibility of AA23 across multiple regions.

This is not the first time Shraddha Kapoor’s name has been linked with Allu Arjun. She was earlier expected to feature in Pushpa 2 for a special song. However, the plan did not materialize, and the makers eventually cast Sree Leela for the number due to undisclosed reasons. If Shraddha signs AA23, it would mark her first collaboration with Mythri Movie Makers and finally bring her together with Allu Arjun on screen.

The recently released concept video of AA23 received a thumping response from audiences, thanks to its intriguing setup and powerful background score composed by Anirudh Ravichander. The video alone was enough to hint at the scale and intensity Lokesh Kanagaraj is aiming for with this project. With casting discussions underway and regular shooting expected to begin later this year, fans can expect more exciting updates in the coming months as AA23 steadily shapes into one of the most anticipated pan-Indian films.