Post the success of her Kannada film, Maanikya,Varalaxmi is presently training for her upcoming film, Tharai Thappattai in which she plays a Karakattam dancer. The film, which is being directed by Bala and which has Sasikumar in the lead, will focus on Karakattam, a folk art form of Tamil Nadu. Sources say that while Shriya Saran and Shravanti were considered for the female lead role, Varalaxmi was chosen because of her prior training in dance.

Varalaxmi says, “I play a Karakattam dancer in the film and so have a dance tutor. Though I am dancer, this dance form is difficult to master. I am also doing research on such dancers. I have been watching videos on the art form and the artists. I have been getting to know how they lead their lives. I am sure my research will help me perfect my performance. I am also on a weight-loss programme for this film.”

Meanwhile, the actress hasn’t signed up for any other film as she wants to concentrate only on this film. She says, “Bala’s film might take some time and I am devoting my time for this project.” The actress is set to start work on the film by end of this month and most of the portions will be shot in Thanjavur.