Iniya replaces Varalaxmi in 'Appa' Malayalam remake, starts shooting

Chennai: Actress Iniya, who has been brought in as replacement for actress Varalaxmi Sarath Kumar in "Aakasha Mitayee", has commenced shooting for the upcoming Malayalam drama.

The film is the remake of last year's Tamil sleeper hit, "Appa", and it's being directed by Samuthirakani, who also plays one of the leads. It was launched last month in Kerala and subsequently the shooting began.

"I heard Varalaxmi had some differences with the producers. She chose to exit the project and we respect her decision. Ineya has been brought in as her replacement. We have already commenced shooting," director Samuthirakani told IANS.

Last month, Varalaxmi tweeted: "Thank you Samuthirakani sir and Jayaram sir for having supported my decision. I can't work with male chauvinists and mannerless producers."

She had told IANS she was unhappy with the "crass" treatment of the makers.

"I don't want to comment on the issue. I just didn't get along with the producers. The way they were handling things was very crass," she said.

The film also stars Jayaram and Asha Sharrath.