A press meet for the film was held yesterday, attended by the director and other members of the cast and crew. They shared their experiences about the making of the film, its storyline, and the challenges they encountered during the shoot.
Speaking at the event, producer Sada Murugan said:
“Panivizhum Iravu is a unique and poetic title. I am also a lyricist, and I feel disappointed that many Tamil films released recently do not have titles that reflect the beauty and richness of the Tamil language. That is why we chose this title, which is simple and easily understandable to everyone. More than 300 films are released in Tamil cinema every year, and through this film, we have attempted to present a storyline that has never been explored before.
Although Arun Karthi looks like an ordinary person, his extraordinary performance on screen will move audiences to tears. Enakshi Ganguly does not know Tamil, but she has added considerable value to the film through her performance. I initially joined this project as a lyricist and music composer. However, I liked the storyline so much that I decided to become a producer as well. With the support of co-producer Jayakumar Thangavel and the entire team, we have created a different kind of film.
Making a film is one challenge, but bringing it to theatres and ensuring its release is an even bigger challenge. Taking up that responsibility, Dhanasekaran and Sanjay of ARK Productions have extended tremendous support to us. The storyline of Panivizhum Iravu is very different. Audiences will not be able to predict the climax until the sixth reel begins. We have crafted the screenplay with that level of suspense and intrigue.
At least 100 families benefit through employment and income whenever a film is made. Therefore, when films produced by small-budget producers like us are made with quality, media friends should encourage us through their reviews. I sincerely thank all the media representatives who have attended this press meet and extended their support.”
Cinematographer Jayakumar Thangavel
Speaking at the event, cinematographer Jayakumar Thangavel said:
“I was working as a wedding photographer in Madurai before entering the business of renting out cameras and filmmaking equipment. Through that business, I developed a connection with the film industry. With the desire to create something of my own in cinema, I became involved in Panivizhum Iravu.
We initially planned to make this film on a limited budget. The actors and technicians extended their complete cooperation. In particular, artists such as Cheran Raj and Saravana Sakthi trusted me and worked on this film without any hesitation. Their support gave me tremendous encouragement.
There are several interesting elements and unexpected twists in the storyline of Panivizhum Iravu. I do not wish to reveal too much at this stage. I believe audiences will have a fresh cinematic experience when they watch the film.
Although we started the project with a limited budget, production expenses increased due to certain circumstances. During that difficult period, producer Sada Murugan stood by me and supported the project. His encouragement helped us continue making the film.
Filmmaking is never something that can be accomplished by one individual alone. Through this film, I have realised how important the cooperation and trust of the entire team are. I believe Panivizhum Iravu will appeal to audiences and receive a positive response.”
Cable Shankar
Film enthusiast Cable Shankar said:
“It is encouraging to see the success rate of small- and medium-budget films increasing in Tamil cinema this year. More than 20 films have reportedly achieved commercial success and profitability. Audiences continue to support good cinema. In addition, opportunities for small films to earn profits through television and digital rights have increased. Compared to other states, Tamil Nadu has a relatively higher success rate for small-budget films, which is a healthy development.
Arun Karthi, the protagonist of Panivizhum Iravu, deserves special appreciation. Apart from playing the lead role, he has also worked as an assistant director during the making of this film. It is commendable that he worked alongside the team without displaying the usual attitude associated with a leading hero. His dedication is encouraging. I particularly believe his performance towards the climax will be widely appreciated.
The female lead, Enakshi Ganguly, is a very pleasant person. She has performed well in a soft and gentle role. My best wishes to her as well.
Producer Sada Murugan has worked extremely hard over the past one-and-a-half months to bring this film to the audience. His dedication towards the release process and censor-related formalities deserves appreciation. I am happy to see director Rajesh and the entire team working together as one unit. Karuppu Nambiar has played an important character in this film, and I believe it will become a significant film in his career.
After going through several changes, Panivizhum Iravu has now emerged as an interesting thriller. My best wishes to Dhanasekaran and Sanjay, who are handling the film’s release activities.
I request the entire team to work together to make this film successful. Audiences and the media should continue supporting small-budget films.”
Actor Uriyadi Suruli
Actor Uriyadi Suruli said:
“It is always encouraging to see small-budget films achieve success. Just as I experienced success through my film Uriyadi, I wish the team of Panivizhum Iravu the very best.
Sometimes success may take time, but when it finally arrives, it should be a memorable one. I would like to thank Arun Karthi, Om Selva and Sada Murugan, who have worked on this film.
I hope this small-budget film receives a good response from audiences and becomes successful. The support of media friends like you is very important in making that happen. I wish the film great success with your encouragement.”
Actor Karuppu Nambiar
Actor Karuppu Nambiar said:
“I wish producers Sada Murugan sir, Jayakumar sir, Selva sir and distributors Sanjay and Dhanasekaran sir tremendous success, happiness and profits through Panivizhum Iravu.
I request newspapers, television channels and all media representatives to take this film to the audience in a positive manner and support its success. I would also like to thank Cable Shankar sir.
I strongly believe that talented film professionals who continue to struggle and work hard will certainly achieve great success one day. My heartfelt wishes to the entire team of Panivizhum Iravu. May happiness surround you all!”
Producer Sivasamy
Producer Sivasamy said:
“When a teacher takes the initiative to produce a film like Panivizhum Iravu, we can understand the level of maturity and thought that might have gone into its content. It is particularly commendable that he has taken on the responsibilities of a music composer and lyricist in addition to working as a teacher and producing this film. I strongly believe this will be a film relevant to today’s generation.
I know cinematographer Jayakumar very well. When he worked on Inspector Surya, I noticed that he would never compromise even if there was a minor flaw in a shot. He would insist on reshooting until he was completely satisfied. I am eager to watch Panivizhum Iravu, which has been shot by someone with such dedication.
Director Rajesh has already proved his abilities by acting in several films and directing two movies. I have personally witnessed his work, and I believe this film will also be good.
The dedication Arun Karthi shows towards the film’s promotional activities is commendable. Watching his enthusiasm makes us eager to see the film. Bringing something new to the screen is not easy. However, once an innovative idea is introduced, it eventually becomes commonplace. In that sense, I believe Panivizhum Iravu will be a fresh attempt.
Even the title gives a pleasant feeling. At the same time, since this is a thriller, I expect the film to combine suspense and emotions with that soothing atmosphere.
Big-budget films receive extensive promotional opportunities. However, small-scale producers support the livelihoods of many families. There is immense talent hidden in villages and among ordinary people. They transform their everyday experiences and real-life incidents into imaginative stories. I believe Panivizhum Iravu will be a film that brings out such talent.
I request media friends to support small films and take their efforts to the public. I wish Panivizhum Iravu tremendous success. Thank you!”
Director Suresh Babu
Director Suresh Babu said:
“Greetings to all the press and media representatives present here. Many of those present are associated with our Inspector Surya team.
I would particularly like to speak about the director of this film, Se. Ra. Rajesh, who is also my friend and relative. Initially, he joined this project as a producer. We had planned to work together on a film. Later, he played an important role in my film Inspector Surya. He is an excellent actor.
After completing two films, he has now reached the stage of releasing his first film as a director. My heartfelt wishes to him.
I would also like to mention Sada Murugan sir. He was another producer with whom we had planned to work. It makes me very happy that all of us have now come together as a team for Panivizhum Iravu.
Next, I would like to appreciate the cinematographer Jayakumar. Having worked as an associate director and assistant director in several films, I understand how important a cinematographer is to a film. The way a scene is composed and captured in the right frame depends greatly on the cinematographer’s contribution.
Having talented technicians like Jayakumar on board is a major strength for any film. Everyone has worked together with great dedication on this project. I believe Panivizhum Iravu will receive a good response from audiences. My best wishes to everyone associated with the film.”
Distributor Dhanasekaran
Distributor Dhanasekaran said:
“One day, when I received information about this film, I watched it and subsequently contacted the director and producer. I invited them to my office for a discussion. I really liked the film’s content. I told them that if we took the story to audiences in the right way, there would be plenty of opportunities to make it successful. Following that discussion, we decided to take the film forward.
Later, I contacted Cable Shankar sir as well. He watched the film and said that it had several positive aspects in terms of content. We have worked day and night for nearly 45 days for this film.
Arun Karthi, the hero of this film, has delivered an excellent performance. Tamil cinema should make good use of his talent. In particular, producers who want to make small-budget films but cannot get the dates of established stars can confidently consider Arun Karthi. He has delivered an extraordinary performance in this film.
The heroine has also performed well. Music composer Sada Murugan has provided excellent music. The visuals captured by cinematographer Jayakumar surprised me. It is remarkable that such grand visuals have been created within a small film’s budget. It was after watching the film that I decided to take it forward with confidence.
Today, bringing small films to theatres has become extremely challenging. In this situation, I would like to thank Food Minister Venkataraman and my friend Ramasamy for their support. Ramasamy watched the film, appreciated it and immediately encouraged us to move forward.
I also extend my heartfelt thanks to Media Balu, director Saminathan and Cable Shankar. My confidence in this film motivated me to contact several people and make continuous efforts to take it to audiences. Producer Sada Murugan and director Rajesh extended their complete cooperation.
Today, several questions are being raised about the success of small films in Tamil cinema. Some people ask why we cannot produce quality films like Malayalam cinema. I believe Panivizhum Iravu will challenge that perception. This film has the potential to do so.
The contribution of journalists and media representatives is extremely important in taking this film to the public. I have experience releasing around 150 films in association with my friends. However, this time, I am personally taking forward the project along with my sister’s son.
With the confidence that our ARK Productions will continue to present good films, we have embarked on this journey. I request everyone to extend their support to Panivizhum Iravu. Thank you!”
Distributor Ramakrishnan
Distributor Ramakrishnan said:
“Dhanasekaran sir, Sanjay and others requested us to take complete responsibility for the distribution activities of this film. Although certain issues arose along the way, they asked me to provide whatever assistance was necessary to ensure its release.
Our intention is to support small-budget films as well. Therefore, irrespective of the scale of a film, we want to extend whatever assistance we can and help take it to audiences.
If producers making small-budget films approach us, we are ready to provide the necessary support and handle the required work effectively. I would even be willing to contribute my services without charging a fee, to the extent possible.
Everyone should come together to support good films and help them succeed. We will continue to do whatever we can to support small films. Thank you!”
Actress Enakshi Ganguly
Speaking at the event, actress Enakshi Ganguly said:
“Initially, I was a little confused about what to speak here. However, I have prepared a short speech because I wanted to speak in Tamil.
I am not completely fluent in Tamil. Until now, I have mostly spoken Hindi, Bengali and English. Even in this film, I had the opportunity to mix Tamil and English while delivering certain dialogues, which helped me.
I am extremely grateful to everyone who gave me the opportunity to work in the Tamil film industry. This film has been a very special experience for me.
J.K. sir, my heartfelt thanks to you. Throughout the film, you kept teaching me Tamil. I hope I have performed as well as you expected.
Arun is a wonderful co-star. During the shoot, he helped me whenever I needed assistance and was always concerned about my comfort and requirements. It was a pleasure working with him.
My sincere thanks to the producer sir for producing and supporting this film. I would also like to thank Cable Shankar sir and everyone who worked hard for this project.
Working with all of you has been a wonderful experience.
I have one request to make to all the press and media representatives here. The producers of this film are emerging producers, and I am also an emerging actress. Your support is very important to people like us.
I request you to help take this film to audiences and movie lovers across the world. We look forward to your support. Thank you very much!”
Actor Arun Karthi
Lead actor Arun Karthi said:
“Greetings to everyone.
There are no words to describe what I am feeling at this moment, as I stand here as the hero of a film that is finally getting released. As I begin speaking on this stage, I imagine my father standing somewhere in a corner, watching me with pride and happiness, just like the emotional climax of the film Don.
Love you, Dad. Miss you, Dad!
My heartfelt thanks to my mother, younger brother, aunt, uncle and friends who have stood by me from the beginning of my journey until today.
If I have to explain how Panivizhum Iravu came into existence, I must first mention J.K. brother. I already knew him and had worked with him on an earlier project. He introduced me to director Rajesh brother and told me that he had an interesting thriller script. I liked the story immediately after reading it. Following several discussions and clarifications, we decided to begin the project.
I would particularly like to speak about the film’s producer and music composer, Sada Murugan sir. We shot the film in Kodaikanal. Even shooting in a city can be challenging, so we anticipated several difficulties while filming in Kodaikanal. However, no matter how difficult the situation became, Sada Murugan sir always kept us smiling.
I really liked his sense of humour and the way he kept everyone motivated and cheerful. My heartfelt thanks to him.
Next, I would like to mention J.K. brother. Cinematography is extremely important for a thriller. Director Rajesh sir and J.K. brother made us go through quite a bit during the shoot! They wanted shots with the misty atmosphere of Kodaikanal, and they would make us perform in our respective costumes without sweaters or jackets, even in the freezing cold.
Although it was difficult at the time, I was extremely happy when I finally saw the visuals on screen.
My thanks to Cable Shankar sir as well. At the beginning of my film career, he watched Oru Nodiyil and encouraged me by saying, ‘Thambi, your voice and acting are good. You will become a big star one day.’ He also watched this film, suggested certain improvements and guided us. He has always been enthusiastic about supporting small films when they have good content.
Our two editors, M. Selva brother and Bhuvanesh brother, have done an excellent job and taken the film to the next level. Director Rajesh brother has worked even harder than I initially expected when he narrated the story to me. My heartfelt thanks to him.
After the shooting was completed, Dhanasekaran sir, Sanjay brother and Ramakrishnan sir from ARK Productions extended tremendous support in taking the film to audiences. From the poster launch to the promotional activities, Dhanasekaran sir continuously supported us. My sincere thanks to all of them.
Enakshi Ganguly, my co-star, is a wonderful person. Sometimes, we would fight like Tom and Jerry, but we share a good friendship. Despite not knowing Tamil, she memorised her dialogues, continuously practised for her character and performed with great dedication. It was a pleasure working with her.
I also had the opportunity to work with several senior artists in this film. Gajaraj sir is a very humble person. He encouraged me during the shoot and lovingly shared several valuable insights.
Karuppu Nambiar sir transformed a police station set into what looked like a real police station through his performance. His natural acting will certainly be appreciated. Cheran Raj sir has also delivered an excellent performance.
Uriyadi Suruli anna has always encouraged films made with good stories and limited budgets. Since Saravana Sakthi sir is already a director, working alongside him helped me learn how to improve a scene and make it more effective.
Saran anna also watched our film and encouraged us. He assured us that he would extend whatever support he could through the media. The contribution and encouragement of every individual associated with this film mean a lot to me.
Finally, I would like to say something to all our press and media friends.
During the release of Oru Nodiyil, the positive reviews and encouragement you gave me helped me receive several opportunities. I sincerely thank all of you for that.
I hope you will extend the same support to Panivizhum Iravu. I have just one request: please do not reveal the climax twist in your reviews. If that suspense is preserved, audiences will have a much better experience when they watch the film.
The film is releasing in theatres on October 30. I request everyone to watch it in theatres.
Although we may call this a small-budget film, we have made every possible effort to provide everything the story requires. We have also done our best with the promotional activities.
I hope this press meet will serve as an important opportunity to take our film to a wider audience. My heartfelt thanks to everyone present here. Thank you!”
Director Se. Ra. Rajesh
Director Se. Ra. Rajesh said:
“First, I would like to pay my respects to my mother and father, who brought me into this world, and to the Goddess of Arts, who brought me into the world of cinema. I extend my humble greetings to all the journalists and media representatives present here.
We faced several difficulties while making this film. However, the struggles we experienced in bringing it to theatres were even greater than those we faced during production. In particular, the difficulties we went through over the last 30 days cannot be expressed in words.
At this challenging time, producer Sada Murugan anna stood by me like a pillar of support. I would first like to express my heartfelt gratitude to him.
I entered the film industry with the ambition of becoming an actor. So far, I have acted in around 15 small-budget films. Some of them have been released, while a few are still awaiting release.
The first story I narrated to Sada Murugan anna was Pagaiyaaru. That film is currently awaiting release. In the meantime, I got the opportunity to make Panivizhum Iravu.
When we discussed this story, Sada Murugan anna encouraged us to make it without delay, as the subject dealt with something that could potentially become a reality in the future. I once again thank him for his encouragement.
The entire film was shot in Kodaikanal. When we encountered certain budget-related difficulties, Sada Murugan anna stood by us and helped us continue our journey with renewed confidence.
I would also like to speak about the film’s lead actor, Arun Karthi. As a director, I can confidently say that he has performed exceptionally well in this film. More than that, the support he extended to me during and after the shooting was immense.
He voluntarily took care of several responsibilities that would normally be handled by assistant directors. At every stage, he would tell me, ‘Bro, I will take care of it. Please don’t worry.’
I am extremely grateful for his affection and cooperation.
My heartfelt thanks to Dhanasekaran anna, Sanjay brother and Ramakrishnan sir from ARK Productions for extending tremendous support in bringing this film to theatres. They have taken forward my debut film as a director with great confidence.
I would also like to thank Cable Shankar sir. After watching the film, he expressed confidence that it would succeed and guided us on the steps we needed to take. His support has been a tremendous strength for me.
I must also mention my editors. M.S. Selva anna played an important role in the film’s editing process. Due to his personal work commitments, he was unable to continue with the project. We subsequently completed the film with Bhuvanesh, who had also worked on my first film. My sincere thanks to both of them.
Although I entered cinema with the ambition of becoming an actor, I later developed an interest in pursuing production as well. In 2018, before the COVID period, I began my journey as a producer with a film titled Irandaam Suthanthiram.
Cinema has taught me many lessons. I have faced several disappointments. There were times when I went searching for opportunities but did not get them. Those experiences helped me understand that when we create an opportunity ourselves, we can also provide opportunities to many others.
I believe that if we work honestly and sincerely, Tamil cinema will certainly take us to a good position.
There is also a reason why we selected Enakshi Ganguly as the female lead in this film. During our discussions about the story, Jayakumar Thangavel sir was the one who selected the actors, including the hero and heroine.
Initially, I had a few doubts. However, during the shoot, Enakshi cooperated well with everyone and performed her character exceptionally. My thanks to her as well.
I would also like to thank Sivasamy sir, who attended this event. After watching my previous work, he has offered me another opportunity. When I direct a film under his production, I will put in my complete effort and make it a memorable project.
My relationship with Sada Murugan anna is not something that ends with this film alone. I have great affection and confidence in him, and I wish to continue working with him. I have given him three films, and I would like to continue this association in the future.
As far as Panivizhum Iravu is concerned, it is an effort that reflects our hard work and belief in the project. I sincerely thank everyone who supported us from the making of the film to its theatrical release.
In particular, I request all press and media representatives to support us and help take this film to audiences. Your encouragement is the greatest motivation for emerging directors like us.
Thank you, everyone!”
Note: The translation retains the speakers’ statements, names, film titles and release information as provided in the original Tamil text.
