Anushka Shetty's period drama "Rudhramadevi" is progressing at a brisk pace with the film's shooting currently being held in Annapurna Studios.

The magnum opus will have Anushka playing the role of warrior princess "Rudhrama Devi," whereas Rana Daggubati is essaying a pivotal role.

One more significant character in the film is that of a warrior named Gona Ganna Reddy. Earlier, reports had emerged that Mahesh Babu will be donning the role of Gona Ganna Reddy in the Gunasekhar directorial.

But, it appears that the superstar might not be doing the role owing to date issues. Mahesh Babu had to allot 20 days for the project and though the actor evinced interest to work in the film, he couldn't do it due to date issues, reported Gulte.

"Balupu" actor Ravi Teja's name was also doing the rounds, suggesting that the actor would appear in that character. Now, buzz is that actor Jr NTR might take up the role of the warrior in "Rudhramadevi."

It may be recalled that Jr NTR made his debut in the Telugu film industry with 1997-release "Bala Ramayanam," directed by Gunasekhar. After several years, the actor will reportedly be teaming with the director once again. However, there is no official confirmation in this regard.

If the speculations turn out to be true, then it will be the first time that Jr NTR will share screen space with Anushka Shetty.

"Rudhramadevi" is one of the most-awaited films of 2014. The film boasts of an ensemble cast including Krishnam Raju, Jaya Prakash Reddy, Prakash Raj, Vikramjeet Virk, Tanikella Bharani, Nithya Menon and Catherine Tresa among others.

The historical 3D film, reportedly made on a budget of around ₹ 40 crore, is produced by Gunasekhar. Its music is composed by Ilaiyaraaja, cinematography is handled by Ajay Vincent and editing is done by A Sreekar Prasad.

The Tamil-Telugu bilingual is likely to hit the screens in the second half of 2014.

(Edited by Anu James)