Produced by S.S. Lalit Kumar under Seven Screen Studio and directed by debutant Suresh Rajakumari, Sirai, starring Vikram Prabhu and debut actor L.K. Akshay Kumar, was released in theatres on December 25 last year. The film received huge appreciation both critically and commercially.
Based on a true incident, the film has been widely celebrated by audiences and continues to run successfully in theatres even after completing 75 days. It was also released on the ZEE5 OTT platform on January 23 and has been receiving a positive response there as well.
The film has earned the reputation of being one of the best Tamil films of last year, and its success continues to be discussed in the film industry.
To celebrate this massive success, a grand success meet was held yesterday in Chennai. Artists and technicians who worked on the film were honored with mementos, and theatre owners and distributors were also recognized.
Director Suresh Rajakumari said:
“We are grateful to everyone who supported this film and made it a big success. Even when we were unsure how certain scenes would turn out, we made them with confidence. This entire film was built on that belief.
Making films based on real incidents is very challenging. If you show reality as it is, it may not work cinematically. At the same time, when adapting it for cinema, you must retain its authenticity. Maintaining that balance is very difficult.
Today, many people cite Malayalam cinema as an example. But making such films succeed in our theatres is not easy. Often, we watch and appreciate such films on OTT platforms. However, it is important to create films that Tamil audiences will enjoy in theatres.
Our entire team supported this effort. The producer Lalit sir was a major strength—his belief in the story, even introducing his son through this film, was significant.
This film proves that audiences will accept strong, content-driven stories. It wasn’t heavily promoted; instead, word-of-mouth appreciation brought audiences to theatres. I sincerely thank the fans and media for their support.”
Director Tamil said:
“The success of this film is due to the contributions of many. I thank all the artists and technicians.
I want to especially thank director Suresh sir for bringing this story to life so effectively. Though it took about four years since Taanakkaran, this film gave me a fresh feeling.
Tamil cinema is now growing to a level that the whole of India notices. While we appreciate Malayalam cinema, Tamil Nadu has a huge number of talented writers. We need to give them more opportunities and respect.
Cinema is not just entertainment—it reflects millions of lives. We should continue making films for theatres and not rely only on OTT platforms.”
Actor L.K. Akshay Kumar said:
“It is a proud and happy moment for me to stand on this stage for my first film’s success. I thank the media, my family, and especially my team.
Every new actor fears whether audiences will accept them. I’m grateful for the support I received in my very first film.
My father has been my biggest support. Director Suresh gave me this opportunity, and I am very thankful. I’ve also been receiving appreciation from other language industries, which makes me very happy.”
Actor Vikram Prabhu said:
“I feel very happy seeing the awards this film has received. I had attended award functions for my father earlier, but now seeing this for my own film is special.
This film proves that success is a team effort. After the release on December 25, the film received great appreciation.
My first film Kumki was a big success, which also brought pressure. But I’ve continued choosing good films despite challenges.
Cinema is a combination of talent, timing, luck, and opportunity. After this 25th film, I feel like it’s a new beginning for me.”
Director Vetrimaaran said:
“It’s a joy to be here. A film without big star power, relying purely on content, achieving such success in theatres is not easy.
The producer’s belief played a huge role. The emotional truth in the film connected with audiences.
Director Suresh has done a commendable job in adapting a real-life incident into a compelling film. His dedication and ability to handle challenges are impressive.
Tamil audiences have great taste, and their acceptance of this film is remarkable. I’m proud to see young filmmakers from my team create such impactful films.”
Producer S.S. Lalit Kumar said:
“I thank the media for taking this film to the people. After the press show, many of you spoke emotionally about the film, and that helped reach audiences.
When this story came to us, I strongly felt Akshay should do it. Later, Suresh joined and helped shape the film beautifully.
Vikram Prabhu’s involvement and the team’s support were crucial. This film’s success brings us immense happiness. I once again thank the audience and media for their support.”
Overall:
The success celebration of Sirai reflects how a strong story, teamwork, and audience support can turn a content-driven film into a major success.
