Chennai, Jan 20 (IANS): Director Hanu Raghavapudi says he couldn't think of anyone else but popular Telugu actor Arjun to play the antagonist in his yet-untitled upcoming Telugu film with Nithiin in the lead.

"This is a very bold character and I couldn't think of anyone else but Arjun in this role. This is a role of great substance and it goes beyond how stylishly the character will be portrayed. He will be seen in a role he has not been seen before in," Raghavapudi told IANS.

The film marks Arjun's return to Telugu filmdom after seven years. His last Telugu outing was 2010 romantic drama "Rama Rama Krishna Krishna".

Admitting it was nervous to approach Arjun with the offer, he said: "It took me two months to even convince myself to give it a try. I was very nervous as I didn't know how he would react when I meet him with a negative role."

The film also stars Megha Akash, who makes her Telugu debut.

With the project already on floors, the team heads for a month-long US schedule in February.

"Arjun will join us in the US. He's equally excited about the role and can't wait to commence shooting," he said.