The first film I watched after returning from prison was 96: Thirumurugan Gandhi

The team of one of Tamil cinema’s finest and most successful films, 96, celebrated the completion of the film’s 100th day in theatres by choosing to honour all its technicians with mementos.

Produced  by S Nandhagopal and distributed by Seven Screen Studios Lalith Kumar, the film, which featured Vijay Sethupathi and Trisha in the lead, impressed audiences so much that it continues its successful run in theatres even after being screened on television.

The event, organized by the team to celebrate the 100th day of the film in theatres, was attended by all the cast and crew members of the film including actors Vijay Sethupathi, Trisha, Divyadarshini, Gouri Kishan and Adhithya Bhaskar.  Apart from the cast and crew, celebrities such as directors Cheran, Parthiepan and the founder of the May 17 Movement, Thirumurugan Gandhi, were invited as the special guests for the event.

Speaking on the occasion,  Thirumurugan Gandhi said, “I am unable to understand until now as to why director Prem Kumar chose to invite me for this event. We were planning to stage a black flag protest against Rajapakse on Saturday and a black flag protest against Prime Minister Modi on Sunday. It was at this time, that I received an invitation for this event.  I do not know what connection we have with love.”

 The leader went on to say, “Heeding to the request of my comrades, the first film that I watched after returning from prison was 96. It was wonderful. Love is such a wonderful thing. Today, we come across several news  reports detailing  acid attacks on women who turn down  proposals. How can people do such things to the woman they love? It is important that we pay attention to where the fault lies. At a time when such reports on attacks on women are increasing day-by-day, this film, 96, which talks about how to celebrate love,  women and nature has released.  Love is not a feeling that arises only in humans. It is a basic trait that is there in all beings in this world.

“The story of the film has been made in such a way that the present happens at night and the past happens during the day. The director has shown that love does not end with a man or a woman. Love transcends all of these. It is to be in love with nature,” he said.

The leader went on to say, “In recent times, Vijay Sethupathi has become my favourite actor. I have said this in a recent interview. The reason is I believe he is an example, a reflection of today’s youth. Vijay Sethupathi showcases the problems that the youth of today face. He reflects their likes, preferences, mannerisms and dreams on screen.  Today’s heroes in films are like superheroes but Vijay Sethupathi appears to be a common man like us when he appears on screen. That is why he is loved by all. When people face difficulties, it is people like Vijay Sethupathi who are able to reach out easily to them.  Trisha had also acted beautifully and my wishes to the director too. “

Gandhi also said, “ Today, the advent of the mobile phones enables us to communicate what we think instantly. We speak about what we like and what we dislike. But this film has spoken beautifully about the experiences of people at a time when there were no cell phones. It has spoken about the experience of either going in person and speaking out what we want to say or not doing so at all, beautifully.  The connection between us and this film is love. We love the people. We love nature. That is why we struggle. This is the truth.“

Speaking on the occasion, Vijay Sethupathi said, “ The presence of political leader and activist Thirumurugan Gandhi here is a very pleasant and big surprise for me. We have put him in a compelling situation whereby he has had to talk about love. I am a huge fan of his thoughts and thought processes. Looking at Thirumurugan Gandhi, he said, “The love you have for us is like that of a brother. I wish that spreads even more. You are a well read thinker, who has understood issues well and in their entirety. I have a request to make to you and that is your speeches must be more commercial in nature.  All good things must reach everybody. As a big fan, I expect your speeches are in such a way that they reach everybody.”

On the occasion, Vijay Sethupathi also announced that he would be acting in Seven Screen Studios’ next film that is to be directed by newcomer Delhi Prasad Dheenadayal.

In the function, as per director Parthipan’s request, Vijay Sethupathi gave Trisha a friendly hug.

Another highlight of the event was a violin recital by the film’s music director Govind Vasantha, who  delighted the audience present by playing the film’s theme song

Seethakaathi will have the scheduled release on 20th December says Producer Sudhan Sundaram.

Seethakaathi will have the scheduled release on 20th December says Producer Sudhan Sundaram. 

Seethakaathi starring Vijay Sethupathi has clicked itself right in all the boxes with both commercial and creative success. Appreciated by the media and a large section of celebrities who had thronged to watch this much expected film yesterday . This happens to be the versatile actor's 25th film and had naturally  created huge expectations . Apart from the swelling number of Vijay Sethupathi fans even the general audience too are keen to capture the "Aiyya"moments .With the  festive mood creeping  in for a golden release tomorrow on 20 th December, one of the producers Sudhan Sundaram clarified the rumours that had been floated around by certain vested interests that the film will not be releasing in time due to some legal constraints that are directly un related to the film.

 "There is an issue in regard to the title and it will be sorted out any time from now on. Mean while certain vested interests are circulating a false propaganda that the release is disturbed. It is absolutely baseless and i assure the audience a film will have a smooth release and  it  will cater to the masses and classes alike " declared Sudhan Sundaram with pride.

Seethakaathi is inspired from questions that came up in my mind after watching a stage play before few years

Seethakaathi is inspired from questions that came up in my mind after watching a stage play before few years” –Balaji Tharaneetharan 

Filmmaker Balaji Tharaneetharan thoroughly amused with a commendable debut ‘Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom’, which had its own situational emotions and humour. In all essence, Seethakaathi will be enriched with these ingredients and speaking about another commonality between these movies, both is inspired from real life encounters. Director Balaji Tharaneetharan recollects the incident saying, “Seethakaathi is inspired from questions that came up in my mind after watching a stage play before few years. The stage artistes were giving a soulful act as though they were performing before a huge crowd. However, the number of audiences was limited to merely countable figure. Aftermath, I spent few hours interacting with them and was surprised by their childlike emotions and excitements, where appreciations and applause meant a lot to them than money. As I came back from there, my mind was occupied with lots of doubts, questions and imaginations, which gradually resulted in the origin of ‘Seethakaathi’.” 

Involving the film’s title and significance to a Tamil proverb, Balaji Tharaneetharan says, “I cannot reveal anything on the plot as it could become a spoilsport. By the end of show, audience will realize the relevance.” 

Speaking about Vijay Sethupathi, he says, “Yes, it’s been a long journey involving both of us in Seethakaathi. It was immediately after NKPK, I had the concept of this film and Vijay Sethupathi asked if he could play the lead. However, I felt that he was joking about it and then in 2017, I went back to him, he immediately got into the project without any hesitations. (Smiles) Maybe, ‘Ayya’ was waiting for him to make it happen. Sometimes, in life, we don’t choose certain things, but they choose us, isn’t it?”  

“Seethakaathi didn’t have its emotions confined to script and camera lens, but for me the experience has been beyond them. To work with drama artists itself was huge gift. To see them perform soulfully that sometimes would leave lump in my throat? Mouli sir has done an incredible performance, mostly with silence and few words. Archana madam, Mahendran sir, Rajkumar and Bhagavathi Perumal have given their inmost life into their characters,’ tots up Balaji 

Produced by Passion Studios, Seethakaathi is scheduled for worldwide release on December 20.

Archana in Seethakaathi

My character in Seethakaathi is bundled emotions of joy, sadness, fear and pathos Archana 

There’s always a specific thing about film protagonists are seen as upright and honest persons. While they might be seen dominating with their screen presence, what actually is to be noted are their spouses. They might not have more words to utter, but their sufferings in silence could be sensed exceedingly. Meet veteran actress Archana, our very own Mrs. Ayya – Lakshmi, who will reflect these qualities being the spouse of most celebrated and artist icon. 

“Yes, that’s an inevitable situation, when you’re soulmate is someone, who is not a materialistic man, but a Kalaignan (Artist),” says Archana with few seconds of silence followed by smile. “This isn’t something called sacrifice, but standing beside the shoulder of someone, who breathes their life, heart and soul for ART is a responsibility. If at all, I am bounded to such emotions, it is all because of one man called ‘AYYA’. My character in Seethakaathi is bundled emotions of joy, sadness, fear and pathos,” says Archana. 

When asked to opine upon her co-star Vijay Sethupathi, she instantly says, “Yes, as I said it’s AYYA and I am not able to separate it from Vijay Sethupathi. It is not just during the shoot, even when I see his pictures and visuals from the film, I can’t think of separating them both. I am sure that it is not just for me, but it will be identical with everyone in team and for audiences as well.” 

Archana extends her unconditional praises on Balaji Tharaneetharan as she says, “I used to wonder throughout the shoot on what really inspired him to take up such a unique theme. While the contemporary generation of filmmakers focus on routine patterns, his out-of-box thinking had put me in complete amazement. Of course, he is the creator ‘AYYA’ and I believe that people will celebrate him for this.”

Seethakaathi is produced by Passion Studios, which will feature Vijay Sethupathi as a 75-yr old drama artist. Scheduled for release on December 20, the film has musical score by the recent musical sensation – Govind Vasantha.

Interesting Tit Bits On Seethakaathi Movie

Seethakaathi Pre-Release Event Press Release 

  

Being ennobled as the most expected release of this season, the entire cast and crew of Vijay Sethupathi starrer “Seethakaathi” were present. 

Around 17 drama artists including Ooty Mani, Kalai Piththan, Sri Rangam Rangamani, IOB Ramachandran, Ms. Manimeghalai, Ms. Jayanthi, L. Mohan, Logi Udhayakumar, Muthukumar, Vidiyal Vinayagam, Abdul, Raghavan, Aadhiraasan, Gopala Krishnan, Ms. Suhasini Sanjeev and Jaga Jeevan. 

Balaji Tharaneetharan said, “Every drama artist who came for the auditions were tremendous, but we could choose only 17 artistes as the script demanded only them. More than auditioning and working with them, it was a huge learning experience to me.”

While speaking about Balaji Tharaneetharan said, “Initially, I didn’t have Vijay Sethupathi in mind. But after years, when I wanted to approach him again, I was little doubtful whether he would accept the offer. But he immediately accepted and this project was possible only because of him. In fact, it wasn’t just about his acting, but he gave lots of inputs that have worked out good results. Another person who has given excellent effort is music director Govind Vasantha, who had composed music for my unreleased movie Oru Pakkathu k 

and am happy that his fame got huge with 96. He has given a soulful work for Seethakaathi.”

Vijay Sethupathi said, “After wearing the makeover of Ayya, I had imagined a lot on how to perceive the role. But I needed someone for a perfect inspiration and it was Ooty Mani Anna who helped me. I am requesting everyone to audition theatre artistes like him as we are lacking proficient  performers.”

Later speaking about the film working experience, he said, “This is my 25th film and it was something out of dream. I never imagined Seethakaathi will be my 25th film. It’s because of Producers at Passion Studios, this film was possible. Anything in the world cannot be pushed by an individual, but universe helps it and am so emotionally happy that everyone has been a part of my journey.”

Producer Jayaraman said, “There are lots of surprises in the film. Expect the unexpected is what I would say about the film.”

Music Director Govind Vasantha said, “Balaji Tharaneetharan is like a mentor and God Father to me. Working in Seethakaathi is a soulful experience. It will not be preachy anywhere. I feel that I have given my best till the date. I would request all to watch the film in theatres for a good experience.”

Actress Remya Nambeesan said, “Being my close friend, music director Govind Vasantha told me that the film has come out really well. I am as curious as everyone to watch the film. Of course, with such a promising team, one can be sure how well the film would be.”

Actor Rajkumar said, “After NKPK, this will be a special film to me. I was really thrilled to see the drama artists recite dialogues during script reading session. Then it was Balaji Tharaneetharan who encouraged me. Every shot in the film would be like an examination. I am thankful to everyone in the team for being supportive.”

Director Deekay who has done a cameo in this film said, “When Balaji Tharaneetharan called me for a screen test, I had fear in me. But he had been so much supportive. I have learnt a lot from him, especially for his making style. Thank you for shaping me as actor and (Jokingly) I will be a competition to Vijay Sethupathi from next film.”

GM Kumar said, “I don’t have scenes with Vijay Sethupathi in Seethakaathi, but I had lots of experience working with him in Kadhalum Kadandhu Pogum. In his film, I have essayed the role of a lawyer. I think it has come out well.”

Actor Vetrimani said, “There are lots of interesting moments in the film and hope everyone loves it.”

Cinematographer Saraskanth TK said, “I would have not got a better launch than this. Such a nice team to work with. Thought it might sound cliche, I must add that we were like family. When the movie started, Balaji told me that let us not exaggerate too much with colors for it must look natural.”

Art Director Vinoth Rajkumar, “I didn’t have confidence when Balaji Tharaneetharan sir kept insisting me to work in his NKPK and OPK. But again, he invited me to work again in Seethakaathi. He has beautifully presented the film. Vijay Sethupathi Brother will be seen as a legend in this movie.”

Editor Govindaraj said, “Seethakaathi is a tough subject and it has been nicely conveyed by Balaji Tharaneetharan. I am so much surprised that what was written as script has been exactly made as movie. There isn’t even a single deleted scene.

Musician Govind Vasantha - Seethakathi Lifetime experience:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rrsc0YWZpKI

I couldn't have asked for more Cinematographer Saraskanth:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jSHu06BXQ84

Seethakathi is a soulful flick with unique script Director Vinodh:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rjI0HC1PFlo

There is no deleted scenes in Seethakathi Editor Govindaraj:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G1DvvHkqi1o

Sync sound was quite challenging of Seethakathi Sound Designer Azhagiya:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_oYN0nn7ILc

Why is this Sync Sound necessary for a movie Sync Sound Designer Raghav Ramesh:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V2kVtPiRSp0

Sync sound was so deeply connected to the mind during Sound Mixing Audio Grapher Suren:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yS4DrO0fpZc

Seethakathi is a different avatar of Kollywood Cinema Publicity Designer Gopi Prasanna:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wMtmPdI-SZw

They surprise me everyday on the sets Director Balaji Dharanidharan:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xpjR1GtcMTc&index=10&list=PLpCwVBEMwi472AaHg9aFsiNANb6qkSqT7

Its a privilage to be a part of this great team Parvathy Nair:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KoODu6F3AIA&index=12&list=PLpCwVBEMwi472AaHg9aFsiNANb6qkSqT7

Ramya Nambesan - My learning experience in Seethakathi is quite different:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gt-WmBDjON8&index=13&list=PLpCwVBEMwi472AaHg9aFsiNANb6qkSqT7
I don't get madras slang properly | Seethakathi Press Meet:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rT8O01MjzoQ&index=14&list=PLpCwVBEMwi472AaHg9aFsiNANb6qkSqT7

I am the competitor for Vijay Sethupathi Actor DK | Seethakathi Press Meet:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3bJbNeHaAe0&index=15&list=PLpCwVBEMwi472AaHg9aFsiNANb6qkSqT7

Does my face suit for such roles Actor GN Sundar:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHNl6h5QK7E&index=16&list=PLpCwVBEMwi472AaHg9aFsiNANb6qkSqT7

You have a lot of interesteing titbits about Seethakathi:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nKD5Jlqkv-Q&list=PLpCwVBEMwi472AaHg9aFsiNANb6qkSqT7&index=17

He is the voice behind Vinay Director Balaji Dharanidharan:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLOdgSccx68&list=PLpCwVBEMwi472AaHg9aFsiNANb6qkSqT7&index=18

You can expect the unexpected in this landmark movie Jairam:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkTYsFwK3a4&index=21&list=PLpCwVBEMwi472AaHg9aFsiNANb6qkSqT7

I can see that Nature is watching us Vijay Sethupathi emotional speech:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9AmV5Jq2fWY&list=PLpCwVBEMwi472AaHg9aFsiNANb6qkSqT7&index=22

Director Balaji Mahendran spotted at Ayya Seethakathi Wax Statute Opening;
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MgrK7hdnXF4&index=2&list=PLpCwVBEMwi472AaHg9aFsiNANb6qkSqT7