The romance portions of Mirchi Siva and Oviya in ‘144’ are based on a popular novel by late legendary writer Sujatha.

“We have officially bought the rights from Mrs Sujatha,” says producer C V Kumar, who is however not ready to reveal what novel it is.

“I cannot divulge it now but we have mentioned it in credits,” says the producer, who says the film will be an interesting crime-comedy set in the backdrop of Madurai. Ashok Selvan of ‘Thegidi’ fame is the other hero of ‘144’.

Directed by Manikandan, a childhood friend of Kumar, the film, according to the producer, will be an entertaining ego clash between two villages near Madurai.

Both Ashok Selvan and Siva are hitherto known for their Chennai-based roles. It is learnt that both actors enjoyed their stay in Madurai for the movie and they loved the food of the temple town a lot.