Chennai, April 22 (IANS): Jagapathi Babu, who ruled as a charming romantic hero not very long ago, is set to play the father of superstar Mahesh Babu in a yet-untitled Telugu project, to be directed by Koratala Siva.

"I had planned to rope in someone new for the father's role and when I watched Jagapathi's performance in 'Legend', I knew I had my man," Siva told IANS.

Jagapathi played the antagonist's role in recent Telugu blockbuster "Legend".

"He (Jagapathi) didn't want to play a villain again so when I had approached him with this role (in the new film), he instantly agreed to do it. He was very particular that he didn't want to get typecast in a role," he added.

Mahesh Babu, who is currently busy shooting for Telugu actioner "Aagadu", will start shooting for this new project soon.

Shruti Haasan has been reportedly been roped in opposite Mahesh in the film, which will be produced by Mythri Movies.

Meanwhile, Jagapthi hasn't stopped playing lead roles. One of his Telugu films titled "April Fool", starring him in the lead role, is gearing up for release soon.