Rima Kallingal to play nurse Lini in 'Virus'

Ever since Aashiq Abu announced his next project titled 'Virus' based on the Nipah scare, social media has been talking about it. While a vast cast and crew are the major attraction of the movie, its early posters have become viral minutes after they were released online.

Onmanorama caught up with director Abu to know more about his upcoming venture:

“Discussions have been going on for the past couple of months regarding the movie based on the Nipah fever outbreak in Kerala. But it is only now that I could announce it officially”, said Abu.

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Ask him why a film on such a theme, the filmmaker said, “The virus causes fever and cold-like symptoms in patients and there is no vaccine or cure. When it broke out in Bangladesh, it was too late for diagnosis and control its spread. But in Kerala, it was different. Everyone came together and did everything to prevent it and it is something that all of us should be proud of. I felt the reports on it were like a thriller and can be woven well into a movie. 'Virus' will be based on stories of love, emotions and overcoming”.

Talking about the big cast and crew, Abu pointed that the movie demands so. “There are so many characters in the film that we had to bring in everyone of them. Be it patients, doctors, laymen, politicians, everyone has a pivotal role in the movie.”

ALSO CHECK: Aashiq Abu's next based on Nipah scare

“We are yet to specifically announce each roles. While Revathy will be seen as health minister Shailaja, Rima Kallingal will reprise the role of Lini, the nurse who passed away after contracting Nipah. The discussions are still on," he added.

The movie slated to hit screens as a Vishu release will begin shoot from December, he revealed.