Chennai, Nov 25 (IANS): Upcoming Tamil action-thriller "Velachery", which features R. Sarath Kumar as an encounter specialist, is based on a real life shootout incident which took place here in Velachery a few years ago.

"Our film is inspired from a real encounter that happened a few years ago. We have made several cop films over the last few years, but have never attempted a taut encounter thriller. I wanted to be the first to do it and I thought this particular incident was apt for the film," the film's director, Vendhan, told IANS.

The film, which is currently on floors, also features Ineya as the leading lady.

Sarath Kumar, who has been playing strong supportive and character roles in the recent past, will essay the lead role in the new film.

"Sarath sir has been part of several cop flicks and audiences have accepted him in that role. In my film, his role as an encounter specialist has been taken up a notch higher as realistic stunts have been included. When I narrated the script to him, he instantly agreed to do it," he added.

Over the years, Sarath Kumar has donned the khaki in films such as "I Love India", "Gambeeram" and "Chennaiyil Oru Naal".