New Delhi, Jan. 28 -- Lured by a wide audience base and the possibility of fresh stories, several stakeholders in Bollywood-be it producers, studios, multiplex chains and even actor Ajay Devgn-are betting big on deals in the south.

Panorama Studios, the distributor of Malayalam thriller Drishyam 3 to be released in April, has signed a multi-film deal with Malayalam star Nivin Pauly. Reliance Entertainment had earlier announced a two-film deal with Unni Mukundan, another face from Kerala.

Multiplex chains Roongta Cinemas and Miraj Entertainment are expanding their presence with new properties in the south even as Bollywood actor-producer Devgn has sought government support for a film studio with VFX (visual effects) facilities in Telanga...