‘Vijay Sethupathi and I decided that we wouldn't work with each other ever again…’: Director Pandiraj

Director Pandiraj has opened up about a past fallout with actor Vijay Sethupathi, revealing that the two had once vowed never to collaborate again due to a personal disagreement. Speaking at the pre-release event of his upcoming film ‘Thalaivan Thalaivi’, Pandiraj recalled the incident that nearly ended their professional relationship for good, and how an unexpected encounter turned things around.

“Some time ago, we had a small difference of opinion and then, it became bigger. It went to a stage where both of us mutually decided that we wouldn't work with each other ever in our lives,” Pandiraj shared, addressing the media at the event.

The filmmaker went on to describe the unexpected moment when the tension between them dissolved, thanks to a chance meeting at director Mysskin’s birthday celebration.

“I had gone to the party and I saw him (Sethupathi) making an entry. I was not sure if I should greet him or stay away. At one point, Mysskin sir invited all of us to gather around for the cake cutting. I was under the impression that he (Sethupathi) wouldn't notice me in the crowd. After the cake was cut, I found a hand coming over my shoulder and locking me in an embracing grip. I turned around to see that it was Vijay Sethupathi. He greeted me affectionately and said, ‘Shall we do a film together?’ and ended the difference of opinion then and there.”

Pandiraj explained that he had originally written the script of ‘Thalaivan Thalaivi’ with Vijay Sethupathi in mind for the lead role.

“My cameraman has worked with Sethu on a number of films. So, when he heard the script, he called up Sethupathi and told him that ‘Pandiraj has a wonderful story in which he feels you will be the best person to play the lead.’ Sethupathi said he would be delighted to work with me and asked us to come immediately. I gave him a narration for only about 20 minutes and Sethupathi, who loved the story and the names of the characters in the film, instantly said ‘yes’,” the director recalled.

‘Thalaivan Thalaivi’ features Vijay Sethupathi and Nithya Menen in the lead roles and is backed by Sathya Jyothi Films, one of the most respected production houses in Tamil cinema. The film, which has music composed by Santhosh Narayanan, is slated for theatrical release on July 25. IANS