Close on the heels of launching Veyyil, director Shankar has commenced shooting for his next - Imsai Arasan Irupathi Moonam Pulikesi.

The movie directed by a debutant Simbu Devan, features comedian Vadivelu playing the hero for the first time.

Vadivelu, who is a busy comedian in Tamil filmdom these days, was hesitant to play the lead role.

However, he was reportedly convinced by director Shankar, who gave him the confidence to accept the role.

As the title suggests, it would be comedy caper featuring Azhagi fame Monica and Nadhitha opposite Vadivelu. Nasser, Nagesh, Sriman and Manorama are also in the cast.

Sabesh Murali would be scoring music while Arthur Wilson will handle the camera.

Simbu Devan was a cartoonist with a popular Tamil magazine before venturing to films.

The film is a giant leap for Vadivelu into the big league.