Arjun Das’ ‘Once More’ has a Vijay connection; Here’s why the actor said thank you

Arjun Das’ ‘Once More’ is out in theatres today, and the actor is stepping into a title that already has a place in Tamil cinema history. Hours before the romantic drama reached theatres, the actor thanked Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and actor Vijay, as well as his father S A Chandrasekhar, for allowing the new film to use the name of their 1997 film.

Taking to social media, Arjun said he was aware of the significance attached to the title and hoped the new film would live up to it.

“Once More, thank you S A Chandrasekhar and Vijay Sir for the title. The weight this title carries is immense, and I hope we as a team make you proud.”

Why the title means so much

The title ‘Once More’ was earlier used for the 1997 Vijay and Simran-starrer directed by S A Chandrasekhar. The film also featured legendary actor Sivaji Ganesan and went on to become a commercial success.

The new film, however, tells a very different story. Directed by debutant Vignesh Srikanth, it stars Arjun Das and Aditi Shankar and revolves around love, heartbreak and finding a way to move forward. The film also features Sona Olickal in a key role.

The makers had announced the title in 2024, with the film described as a musical love story set against the backdrop of two contrasting families.

Arjun also used his post to explain what drew him to the project. He said he first heard the script after his friend and director Surrya introduced him to Vignesh Srikanth around two years ago.

According to Arjun, it was the film's clean and uncomplicated approach that convinced him to come on board.

“‘Once More’ is going to be all yours in a few hours. Two years ago, a friend/ director of mine, Surrya introduced me to Srikanth and we met for a narration. When the narration was done I told Srikanth that I would definitely like to be a part of his film. The reason being that it's a clean film. And when I say clean, I mean no violence, no foul language, no drinking, no smoking, no abusing women... nothing toxic. It just felt real. A very simple, cute, emotional, musical love story about heartbreak, moving on,hope and a lot of love.”

Arjun, who has often been seen in more intense roles, has previously spoken about wanting to explore a softer side through Once More. He recently described the film as a “love letter to Mani sir”, referring to filmmaker Mani Ratnam, and said its themes of healing and hope appealed to him.

A message for Aditi, Sona and the team

The actor also thanked producer Yuvaraj Ganesan and Million Dollar Studios for backing the project. He had special words for his co-stars Aditi Shankar and Sona Olickal, crediting them with helping him bring his character Raghu to life.

“Thank you to Yuvaraj brother & Million Dollar Studios for believing in this project. Also, a big big thank you to both of these absolutely wonderful women - Aditi & Sona, for being amazing and helping me play Raghu. If not for the both of you, I don't know if I would have been able to pull this one off.”

He also acknowledged cinematographer Aravind Viswanathan and the rest of the technical crew, while reserving special praise for composer Hesham Abdul Wahab.

“A big thank you to Foxy for the killer visuals and to all the technicians who worked on this film. Hesham, my brother, thank you for agreeing to compose the music for Once More. You are the soul of this film. I can't wait for the audience to experience the magic you have created in this film.”

Hesham, known for films including Hridayam and Hi Nanna, is making his Tamil debut with Once More. The soundtrack has 13 songs, with lyrics penned by director Vignesh Srikanth.

‘Once More’ releases on August 28

Written and directed by Vignesh Srikanth, ‘Once More’ is produced by Yuvaraj Ganesan under the Million Dollar Studios banner. Arjun Das and Aditi Shankar lead the cast, with Sona Olickal, Dravid Selvam, Anusha Prabhu and others also appearing in the film.

The romantic drama is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on August 28, 2026.

As the film finally reaches audiences, Arjun has one last message for those who have supported the project.

“To the audience, thank you for all the love you have given Once More over the years. I look forward to hearing your feedback once you've watched the film. See you real soon! Lots of love, Arjun/Raghu.”