New Delhi, Jun 7 (PTI) Actor Deepika Padukone on Saturday joined the cast of Telugu cinema star Allu Arjun and director Atlee”s upcoming movie.

Backed by production banner Sun Pictures, the movie is billed as a “magnum opus”. The currently untitled movie was officially announced on Arjun’s 43rd birthday in April.

“The Queen marches to conquer! Welcome onboard @deepikapadukone #TheFacesOfAA22xA6 #AA22xA6 – A Magnum Opus from Sun Picture @alluarjunonline @atlee47,” Sun Pictures posted on Instagram.

The pan-India film, which will start production later this year, is touted to be a cinematic milestone, blending “intense emotion, adrenaline-pumping action, grand visuals, and storytelling deeply rooted in Indian culture for a global appeal”.

The project will mark Deepika Padukone’s reunion with director Atlee, following their successful collaboration on the 2023 blockbuster “Jawan”, which was headlined by Shah Rukh Khan.

It will also be her first on-screen pairing with Arjun, the lead actor of the “Pushpa” franchise.

“Collaborating with Deepika Padukone mam on ‘Jawan’ was incredible—her range, power, and grace shine in every frame. She drives the story. Now, with her and Allu Arjun sir together, we’re creating something truly unforgettable—real filmmaker’s dream synergy,” Atlee, also known for Tamil films “Mersal”, “Theri”, and “Bigil”, said in a statement.

Padukone coming on board Atlee’s film follows the controversy surrounding her reported exit from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s “Spirit” due to creative differences, though there was never any official confirmation of her involvement in the film. PTI RB RB