Ken Karunas, who captured attention with his remarkable performances in Asuran and Viduthalai 2, has now stepped into the director’s role with the film Youth. Centered on school life, the film is produced by Karuppaiya C. Ram under the banner of Parvatha Entertainment.
In Youth, Ken Karunas plays the lead role, alongside Anishma (Sirai fame), Meenakshi Dinesh, and Priyanshi Yadav as the female leads. Other important roles are portrayed by Devadarshini, Suraj Venjaramoodu, and several others.
The film’s music is composed by G.V. Prakash Kumar, and the three released songs have received an enthusiastic response. Ahead of its release on March 19, the pre-release event took place today at Sathyam Cinemas in Chennai, attended by special guests, actors Dhanush and director Vetrimaaran.
Actress Nalini Speaks
“I had decided I would never act in films again. But Ken and his father Karunas invited me to be part of Youth. I thought it was a small role at first, but during filming, I had a completely new experience. They treated me with care, enhancing my performance, and it reignited my desire to act in cinema.
The Youth team works with incredible energy, shooting non-stop without breaks. Even though it was challenging, seeing their dedication brought me joy. For the first time, I went to the dubbing theater to record my lines, thanks to this team. I am deeply grateful to Ken, Karunas, and the entire Youth team for reintroducing me through this film. I wish them even greater success.”
Actress Devadarshini Speaks
“Congratulations to Ken Karunas for taking on the lead role. His effort as an actor-director is commendable. G.V. Prakash Kumar’s music is excellent, and it will attract music lovers. I was amazed to see Nalini Ma’am, who usually leaves for TV shoots at 6 AM, reading her dialogues continuously from morning till night for this film. Ken, as a director, will shine even more than as an actor. Working with Suraj Sir was a wonderful experience. Ken truly is the original hero of this film. I sincerely thank him and the Youth team.”
Actress Meenakshi Dinesh Speaks
“I’m very happy to have the opportunity to act in Tamil cinema through Youth. I thought I had no luck in life, but meeting Ken changed that. I’m grateful he chose me for this role. Standing on this stage with stars like Dhanush and Vetrimaaran feels like a dream. Thanks to producer Karuppaiya and cinematographer Vicky, the team felt like a family, and everyone treated me warmly. I enjoyed working with Suraj Sir, Nalini Ma’am, and all the other actors.”
Actress Priyanshi Yadav Speaks
“This film is a dream project for us. During filming, we constantly discussed the release date, eagerly anticipating it. I thank Ken for giving us this opportunity. Though I don’t speak Tamil, the team made me feel at home, and we all worked honestly. I hope everyone supports this film. Thank you.”
Actress Anishma Speaks
“Standing on this stage is nerve-wracking in front of so many fans. I am very grateful to Ken for letting me act in this dream project. At such a young age, Ken worked very hard to make this film. I believe this film will significantly change his career. Thanks to producer Karuppaiya and composer G.V. Prakash Kumar. I am also a big fan of his music and even danced to his songs at home. Thanks to Suraj Sir, Devadarshini Ma’am, and the entire team for making this experience so special. I hope this film succeeds for everyone.”
Actor Suraj Speaks
“Hello to all Tamil audiences. This is my second Tamil film. I thank Ken and producer Karuppaiya for giving me such a character. Working with experienced actors like Devadarshini Ma’am and Nalini Ma’am was a pleasure. Likewise, the three heroines—Priyanshi, Meenakshi, and Anishma—performed wonderfully. I really liked Chinna’s mimicry skills. Ken explained every character’s emotions and pre-shot the film on his phone, which felt like watching the film in advance. His screen presence and humor impressed me. Ken is destined to become a major star. The producer has supported him greatly, and G.V. Prakash Kumar’s music is fantastic. I am a big fan of his work.”
Ken Karunas Speaks
“Having Dhanush and Vetrimaaran at this event is a proud moment. Vetrimaaran introduced me as an actor, and Dhanush gave me an opportunity to learn directing. Both standing here for me brings great joy. Meeting Dhanush for the first time, I was very young, but after watching Kaadhal Kondein, I knew Tamil cinema had gained a great actor.
I have interacted with audiences since I was young and believe that if we truly love cinema, it will never abandon us. I worked very hard to make this film, and the support from producer Karuppaiya and composer G.V. Prakash Kumar has been invaluable. I thank everyone in the Youth team; without them, this film wouldn’t exist. I also remember the late director Tamira, who first recognized me as an actor. I am proud to stand here as a director today. I hope everyone enjoys Youth when it releases on March 19.”
Producer Karuppaiya Speaks
“When Ken first narrated his story, I liked it and decided to produce the film. He worked wonderfully to bring it to life. Thanks to the entire team, including actors Suraj, the heroines, and all technical staff. Dhanush attending this event is a huge honor. I also thank director Vetrimaaran. The film has been made with great investment and dedication. Everyone must watch it in theaters.”
G.V. Prakash Kumar Speaks
“Ken learned a lot from strict directors like Dhanush and Vetrimaaran but managed to make Youth feel fun and vibrant. I was given the opportunity to compose music because of Ken, and I hope the audience loves it. All actors, including Devadarshini, Nalini, Suraj, and the three heroines, performed excellently. Youth is definitely an entertaining film for young audiences, and I wish the team all the best.”
Director Vetrimaaran Speaks
“Not all films have such a positive and united team. The director’s trust and mindset are the key reasons a team works like this. Ken narrated the story beautifully, connecting music and emotions meticulously with each scene. He has grown as an actor and now as a director, with Dhanush giving him faith and support. This is admirable at his age.”
Actor Dhanush Speaks
“First, I applaud producer Karuppaiya. A 23-year-old trusting a story enough to produce it takes courage. If the film succeeds, the credit goes to Karuppaiya; Ken will always remain true to him. Every film has an identity. For Thulluvadho Ilamai, it was Yuvan Shankar Raja; for Youth, it is G.V. Prakash Kumar, who composed without charging. I thank him on behalf of Ken. Thanks to Suraj, Devadarshini, Nalini, and the heroines. I first saw Ken in Asuran, and I was amazed by his confidence. Vetrimaaran deserves all the credit for discovering him. At this age, taking on such responsibility is exceptional. Ken’s focus on his dream and family is commendable. I hope Youth is a huge success and becomes a blessing for Ken and the entire team.”
Grace Karunas Speaks
“Thanks to Dhanush and Vetrimaaran. When Ken got a character in Asuran, there was doubt if he could handle acting and studies simultaneously, but he made the most of it. It’s not enough to act well; the audience must feel that no one else could play that role. Watching Ken in Youth was a learning experience, and Dhanush’s presence at the event feels like a dream. The film has been made with significant investment, and everyone should support it in theaters.”
The film “Youth” releases on March 19. Audiences are encouraged to watch and support it in theaters.
