"NAYAK is not just a purposeful political thriller. It is a revealing mirror. It is an optimistic vision," reveal the makers of this flick that stars Anil Kapoor, Rani Mukherji and Amrish Puri in lead roles.

Produced by A.M. Rathnam, who has produced 35 films in Telugu, Tamil and Hindi over a period of ten years, NAYAK is directed by Shankar, director of HINDUSTANI, JEANS, GENTLEMAN and HUMSE HAI MUQABLA.

An outline of the story:

Our country has hundreds of cities. Thousands of streets. Lacs of homes. A billion people. A zillion problems. And so many problems. But there is one man who stands up. Who challenges. Who dares. Who makes the difference.

Shivaji Rao (Anil Kapoor) is a common man with an uncommon persona. A fearless television news reporter, his passion for his job and pursuit of the truth makes him incur the wrath of insatiable power hunters. Like Chief Minister Balraj Chauhan (Amrish Puri), for instance.

Balraj Chauhan is one of those due to whom the word 'politician' has earned its very own unflattering connotation. One fateful day, the reporter in Shivaji Rao assumes the disillusioned voice of the people and publicly interrogates the Chief Minister on the pathetic state of affairs.

Balraj Chauhan's answer is a mocking invitation to Shivaji Rao ­ to become the Chief Minister for one day and see what he can do. To his dismay, Shivaji Rao accepts.

Little does Balraj Chauhan know that with this offer, he has dug his grave. Little does he realise that one man, one day, one chance is all that is required.

What follows is a dynamic battle of wits and fists.

Rani Mukherji plays Manjari, the simpleton in Anil's complex world. The sunshine when all seems dark. The laughter when there is nothing to smile about.

NAYAK has been shot in more than 100 locations within seven states of India - Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh.

NAYAK has music by A.R. Rahman and is scheduled for release in August.