A mass movie with a message...that is how this week's big Kannada release, Jarasandha, is being publicised. With a director like Shashank, who has churned out several hits, and action hero Vijay, expectations are high. In fact, Jarasandha is said to be Vijay's highest selling (distribution rights) film so far.

Jarasandha is about the Mangalore underworld and major parts of the film have been shot in that city. Many artistes from that region have been cast in the film.

Vijay plays a body builder who wants to make a name for himself at the international level. Pranita is his love interest.

Will a heroine have anything to do in an out-and-out action flick? "First of all, I am happy to be a part of a Kannada film that will take action to a whole new level. And, secondly, even in an action film, it's not like kicks and punches will dominate all the scenes. There is a strong love track in the film and Shashank has given me enough scope," says Pranita.

Pranita's is a glamorous role. "I play a model in the film. Yes, I have been portrayed stylishly, but not in any place will you feel that there is undue exposure. I enjoyed every bit of this role. Matching steps to Arjun's songs was also great fun."

Jarasandha also gave her the opportunity to star alongside an established actor like Vijay, says Pranita.

"My journey in the Kannada film industry is just two films old. My first film, Porki, was with Darshan and in the very next film I got to work with Vijay. He is very hard working. His commitment is inspirational. Shashank, on the other hand, helped me improve my performance. He is very patient and this put me at my ease and allowed me to give my best shots."

Along with Pranita and Vijay, the film also stars Rangayana Raghu. He will be seen playing a man from Andhra Pradesh.

Raghu says, "I've known Shashank since his assistant director days. He has always encouraged theatre artistes by casting us in his films. I worked in Sixer, his first film as director."

"So far you have seen Vijay in raw action films. Jarasandha will come as a complete contrast as it has been shot stylishly. I always wanted to direct an action flick and chose this film to venture out of my comfort zone, which is love stories," says Shashank.

Jarasandha has been awarded an A certificate, and will hit the screens tomorrow.