Gulshan Grover, known for playing negative characters in Hindi films like "Ram Lakhan" and "Bullett Raja", will be seen essaying an important role in upcoming Tamil drama "Thanneer" about the water crisis.

The film, which will be directed by Vasanth Sai, was officially launched Friday.

"I have immense respect for Vasanth and have admired his work. I'm really honoured to have got this opportunity to work with him," Gulshan told reporters here.

Based on a popular novel by Ashokamithran, the film features Chandini Sasha in the lead role.

The film's director said the film is "very close to my heart" and he hopes "it creates the awareness about water crisis".