Music Launch Ceremony of ‘Kombu Seevi’ starring Sarathkumar and Shanmuga Pandian Vijayakanth
The music launch ceremony of the film ‘Kombu Seevi’, starring ‘Supreme Star’ Sarathkumar and ‘Young Captain’ Shanmuga Pandian Vijayakanth, was held grandly in Chennai.
Directed by Pon Ram, ‘Kombu Seevi’ features Sarathkumar, Shanmuga Pandian Vijayakanth, Tharnika, Kali Venkat, Munishkanth, George Maryan, Sujith Shankar, Kalki Raja, and many others.
This film, a rural-based action-comedy entertainer, is produced by Mukesh T. Sellaiya under the banner of Star Cinemas.
Balasubramaniam has handled the cinematography, and Yuvan Shankar Raja has composed the music for the film.
The music launch ceremony of the film, which is set to release worldwide in theaters on the 19th of this month, was held magnificently in Chennai. Many dignitaries attended the event, including the General Secretary of the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam, Mrs. Premalatha Vijayakanth, L. K. Sudheesh, Vijay Prabhakaran, directors S. A. Chandrasekhar, M. Rajesh, Mithran R. Jawahar, actor Rio, lead actors Sarathkumar and Shanmuga Pandian Vijayakanth, music director Yuvan Shankar Raja, cinematographer Balasubramaniam, art director Saravanan Abiraman, editor Dinesh Ponraj, actor Kalki Raja, producer Mukesh T. Sellaiya, and director Ponram.
Speaking at the event, director S. A. Chandrasekhar said, “Looking at the poster of ‘Kombu Seevi’, it feels energetic. In rural areas, ‘Kombu Seevi’ refers to a bull. It’s unclear who the ‘Kombu Seevi’ is in this film; both of them seem to fit the description.” Captain Vijayakanth had a fire in his eyes, a certain intensity. That fiery gaze is also present in Shanmuga Pandian. Sarathkumar, too, is aggressive in it, as if saying, ‘I’m no less than you!’ His look is excellent. His appearance is like that of a bull that still has its horns sharpened, even in old age. In that sense, this poster itself showcases the film’s valor.
I really like the sense of humor that director Ponram possesses. I believe that this film, directed by him, will have more speed and action than comedy. Because he has delivered such a film knowing that this is what today’s generation enjoys. I wish that every one of his films should be successful. Because Ponram is like one of my own children.
The director is a young man, the hero is a young man, Sarathkumar is a young man, and Yuvan Shankar Raja, who composed the music, is also a young man. Thus, young people have come together with a new energy.
There is a history unique to the world. Only change is constant. It exists in all fields. This is true in all fields – society, politics, and the film industry. As far as I know, in the film industry, there were M. K. Thyagaraja Bhagavathar and P. U. Chinnappa at one time, then MGR and Sivaji, then Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, and after that, today’s superstars – changes have been constantly happening. No one can change this. This is the necessity of time. Therefore, the young people who represent this change must succeed. Because these young people and the people of Tamil Nadu are longing for a change. That change should also happen in this film. I wish you all the best and take my leave. Thank you,” he said.
Actor Rio, speaking next, said, “Thank you to everyone who is going to welcome the film ‘Kombu Seevi’. Ponram is the only director who has directed three films with Sivakarthikeyan: ‘Varuthapadatha Valibar Sangam’, ‘Rajini Murugan’, and ‘Seemaraja’.” If all three films are broadcast on television, the whole family will sit together, watch, and enjoy them. According to television viewership ratings, ‘Seema Raja’ is the top-ranked film in Tamil. The reason I mention this is that when it comes to a ‘proper television movie,’ director Pon Ram holds the top spot. I am a huge fan of his direction. He is a director who can create many films that make you laugh and enjoy. I wish this film, starring Shanmuga Pandian under his direction, great success.
Watching the trailer of this film, it seems to have plenty of comedy and action. This has created high expectations for the film. This film is directed by Pon Ram and features music by our leader Yuvan Shankar Raja. Yuvan Shankar Raja’s music is special for films with a rural backdrop. For example, we can mention films like ‘Paruthiveeran’ and the recently released ‘Viruman’. For such films, his music reflects the natural essence and depth of the soil.
Vijay Prabhakaran has proven that Captain’s spirit is also present in his descendants. His recent appreciation of Bala’s film is proof of this.
Yuvan Shankar Raja was introduced as a music director through Sarathkumar’s film ‘Aravindan’. Sarathkumar looks as young today as he did back then. They have to put him in old-age makeup to make him look older.
“There is something that needs to be said. Just as Yuvan’s music remains youthful, so does Sarathkumar. Since he is also in this film, I wish that this film achieves great success,” he said.
Lyricist Snehan said, “This stage is very close to my heart. From the moment the event started until now, everyone here has come together as a group bound by affection. I thank director Ponram for giving me this opportunity.
Directors Ponram and Rajesh were my friends even when they were working as assistants to S.A. Chandrasekhar. But I hadn’t written songs for any of their films. When I heard that he was going to direct ‘Kombu Seevi’, I met director Ponram and asked him with a sense of entitlement that I wanted to contribute to this film. I asked this because of the friendship I share with Captain.
When I got the opportunity to write a song, I expected a situation similar to writing a song like ‘Thamizhan Thamizhan…’ in the film ‘Rajiyam’. But I got the opportunity to write a commercial song in this film starring Shanmuga Pandian. However, I will soon write an unshakeable song for Shanmuga Pandian, just like I did for Captain. I am eagerly waiting for this.
I wrote all the songs in the film ‘Paruthiveeran’. I thank Yuvan and the director for giving me the opportunity to write songs for a film that evokes such a rural feel.
The entire film industry should congratulate producer Mukesh Chelliah, who is producing and releasing this film on a grand scale for Shanmuga Pandian, who is like a son to our family. This happened because of the love he has for Captain. For this reason too, I wish that this film becomes a success.
I have worked with Captain in six or seven films. For the first time in my life, I took a flight from Chennai to Mumbai to write a song for Captain’s film ‘Vanchinathan’. That is unforgettable. There are countless memories of him. I could keep talking about them.” In that regard, we will all be very happy if Shanmuga Pandian grows in the film industry. We will shower you with the love that we owe to Captain. We are waiting for the right opportunity and time for that. You are a child born of love. Love never fails. Love will prevail. I believe that ‘Kombu Seevi’, starring Shanmuga Pandian, will also be victorious, best wishes,” he said.
Director M Rajesh said, “I am happy. This event feels like a family gathering. Ponram and I have been friends since our days as assistant directors. We are friends who can say ‘Nambenda…’ (We are best friends). I have worked with him from his ‘Varuthapadatha Valibar Sangam’ film to this ‘Kombu Seevi’ film. As a friend, I have participated in story discussions and helped him. Similarly, he has also helped me with my films. This friendship between us continues even today.
I have watched this film. I liked it very much. Sarathkumar and Shanmuga Pandian appear as two pillars on screen. In this film, Sarathkumar has delivered an energetic performance. He has also impressed in the action sequences in this film. When I watched the film, in many places, Shanmuga Pandian’s performance reminded me of Captain. When the audience, especially Captain’s fans, watch these scenes in the theatre, it will be a wonderful moment for them.
Behind the screen, the cinematographer and the music director have worked as two pillars. This film will be a huge success. I thoroughly enjoyed the film’s trailer,” he said.
Director Mithran R Jawahar said, “Ponram is one of my favorite directors. I really like his comedy films. When I watched the trailer of this film, it seems to be in the same league as his films like ‘Varuthapadatha Valibar Sangam’ and ‘Rajini Murugan’. I extend my best wishes for this.
I have met Shanmuga Pandian.” If there is one thing I have to share with him, it is that a great future awaits him. Embark on that journey with courage and without hesitation. You possess all the necessary talents. And above all, I can confidently say that you have the blessings of your parents. It’s amazing to see you on screen. This film will be a major turning point in your life.
The hero of this event is Yuvan Shankar Raja. I have been working with him for 15 years. I wish him success for the songs and the film which have been created with his music,” he said.
Vijay Prabhakaran said, “I am very happy to be standing on this stage. I have come here not as the hero’s brother, but as a fan of Shanmuga Pandian.
To talk about Shanmugam, he started acting in films in 2012. Shanmugam has been in the film industry for 13 years…”
He is traveling this path. This 13-year journey has taught us many things. In these 13 years, many heroes might have acted in many films. But this is only the fourth film for Shanmugam. This is because, when his father was unwell, it was Shanmugam who stayed by his side and took care of him. He firmly said, ‘More than acting in films, I want to be with my father, help him recover, and give him back to the people of Tamil Nadu.’ That’s why my father told me to get involved in politics.
The reason I’m mentioning this here is that from the moment this film’s work began until its completion, it has progressed without any interruption. Although announcements were made about many films before, they did not proceed properly. Yet, he remained unwavering and confident that he would definitely succeed. Captain’s son was courageous, believing he could do it. Even though his friends succeeded in cinema during these 13 years, his passion for cinema did not diminish in the least. At this moment, I would like to thank Star Cinemas and producer Mukesh Chelliah. He is working tirelessly to ensure that this film becomes a huge launchpad for Shanmugam.
When producer Mukesh sir told us that director Ponram was keen to direct a film with Shanmugam, we were very happy.
When I was in college, I enjoyed watching the film made by the Sivakarthikeyan-Ponram combination. I was so happy that Shanmugam was going to act under the direction of such a great director. When we inquired about the other actors, and Ponram said that Sarath sir was acting in this film, our joy doubled.
From the time of ‘Pulan Visaranai’, Captain and Sarath sir have traveled together. Their friendship is unique. Today, in my father’s absence, I see Sarath sir extending his hand and supporting Shanmugam to elevate him to the next level as a positive sign. While watching the ‘Vasthara…’ song from this film, I was observing who among Shanmugam and Sarath Sir danced better. Both of them danced very well.
I saw Yuvan Shankar Raja for the first time when the title ‘Alexander Movie BGM – Yuvan Shankar Raja’ appeared. I am meeting him in person only now after that. As soon as we started talking, we shared many things.
When we started working on the film ‘Sagaptham’, Captain told us that Shanmugam’s first film should have music from Ilaiyaraaja’s family. Karthik Raja composed the music for ‘Sagaptham’. Ilaiyaraaja composed the music for Shanmugam’s next film, ‘Padaithalaivan’. Yuvan Shankar Raja has composed the music for his next film, ‘Kombu Seevi’. Captain’s wish has been fulfilled in Shanmugam’s first three films. Bhavatharini has also sung a song in ‘Sagaptham’. This confirms that Shanmugam has Captain’s complete blessings.
My father used to tell me from a young age that in cinema, it’s not just about the hero and heroine, but you should read the names of all the technicians who work on it. He would say that everyone works together to create a film. Therefore, I express my gratitude to all the technical artists who worked on this film.
When the shooting of this film was taking place in Theni, my mother and I had gone there. When the ‘Usilampatti…’ song was played, everyone enjoyed it. After seeing this, I thought this song would be a huge hit. After the film’s release, many fans will come to the theaters just for this song. I believe this will elevate Shanmugam to the next level. I also see this as a new collaboration. I believe ‘Kombu Seevi’ will be a huge success on December 19th,” he said. Music composer Yuvan Shankar Raja said, “I am very happy to be on this stage. I have a lot to say. I have grown up watching Captain’s films since my childhood. Captain is a very inspiring person to me.
Captain and his wife visited our house for the first time as a married couple for a dinner. At that time, I and all my relatives were dancing to my father’s music.
When director Ponram met me, I asked who the hero was. When he said Shanmuga Pandian, I agreed to compose music for this film without a moment’s hesitation. Captain sir has been a pillar of support for many. My brother Shanmuga Pandian will definitely have a great place in cinema.
Starting from Sarath sir, I am now working with Shanmuga Pandian.
I was happy after hearing the screenplay of this film. Ponram’s trademark comedy scenes were superb. The experience of working with him was enjoyable.
I composed the music for Captain sir’s film ‘Thennavan’.”
He said, “Before composing music for the film ‘Aravindan’, I composed the background score for the film ‘Alexander’, which was composed by my elder brother Karthik Raja. At that time, the producer Subbu Panchu requested that I compose the background music for that film. I composed one song and the background music for that film. In this way, my film journey began with the film ‘Alexander’. Today, composing music for the film starring Captain’s son feels like his blessing and like working for our own family.”
Mrs. Premalatha Vijayakanth said, “Everyone here is someone I’ve known and been acquainted with since the day I married Captain.
I have known Yuvan Shankar Raja since he was born. Ilaiyaraaja sir and Jeeva aunty are very close to our hearts. I have only a few friends in the film industry. The most important among them is Jeeva aunty. You could even say she is my inspiration.
Back then, all the films would be released. We would be busier than the heroes. Jeeva would invite me to watch the preview show of every film composed by Maestro Ilaiyaraaja. If it was Captain’s film, I would invite all my friends and companions.
Like Prabhakaran and Shanmugam, Yuvan is also like a son to me. Whenever I have any problem, I talk openly with Ilaiyaraaja’s family. Similarly, I also talk with Sarathkumar.
Our wedding took place on January 31, 1990. The film ‘Pulan Visaranai’ was also released on that day. The bond and friendship that formed between us on that day continues strongly to this day. When Captain served as the president of the Actors’ Association, Sarath sir and Napoleon sir worked together like two hands for him. When I recall these old memories, each one is a wonderful moment.” L.K. Sudheesh is the producer of the film ‘Sagaptham’, starring Shanmuga Pandian. He has been not only his maternal uncle but also his everything until today.
I have watched this film. This film will be one that families can go to the theaters, watch, enjoy, and celebrate together. The people of Tamil Nadu will appreciate it.
The special feature of this film is that Ilaiyaraaja and Yuvan Shankar Raja have sung a song together. A sentimental song about a mother is truly special only when Ilaiyaraaja sings it.
The antics of Shanmuga Pandian and Sarath Kumar, who plays his maternal uncle in the film, will entertain everyone. The chemistry between the two has worked out very well. Both of them have worked hard. The film is releasing on December 19th. I request everyone to go to the theaters, watch, enjoy, and support the film,” he said.
Director Ponram said, “Three years ago, I met producer Mukesh Chellaiya. He was the one who expressed the idea of directing a film with Shanmuga Pandian. I express my first thanks to him for that. After that, I met Captain and Shanmuga Pandian. As soon as I saw Shanmuga Pandian in person, I mentally decided that I needed to make some changes to the screenplay.
As far as I’m concerned, I expect that for a film to be made, not only the director but also the producer should work together creatively. In that respect, producer Mukesh’s contribution to this film and this event is significant. I appreciate this.
If I have to talk about the story of this film, while I was filming a song for the film ‘Varuthapadatha Valibar Sangam’, I went to the interior of the Vaigai Dam. There, they were irrigating using a well with a motor. At that time, I looked with surprise, wondering if anyone would cultivate land inside the dam area.” When I inquired about it, they said that if the water level in the dam recedes, our land and agriculture would be visible. But if the water level rises, we would have to abandon farming and leave. This incident became the story for this film.
Later, during the COVID-19 period, I was camped in Theni. At that time, the dam was overflowing with water, and an elderly man was watching it with an umbrella in his hand. That sight evoked many emotions in me. That was the inspiration for this film.
You must be wondering how there can be comedy in such a serious story, right? That’s my challenge. That’s why I created the characters ‘Rokka Puli’ played by Sarath Kumar and ‘Pandi’ played by Shanmuga Pandian. In that sense, this film will be an entertainer with a mix of action and comedy.
I had a long-standing desire to work with Yuvan Shankar Raja. He is the one who has the credit for taking me to Dubai for the first time. A huge thank you to Maestro Ilaiyaraaja for singing the mother’s song in this film.
I was a little nervous when I narrated the story to Sarath Kumar. Only occasionally does he behave like a senior person. The rest of the time, he is like a young man, and a child at heart.
[15/12, 20:24] Flowing Fizz: “Working with the young man was an unforgettable experience.
There is a connection between Tharnika, who played the lead role in this film, and Sarathkumar. Tharnika is the daughter of actress Rani, who played the role of a teacher in Sarathkumar’s film ‘Nattamai’.
When Shanmuga Pandian was told that he needed to rehearse for the scenes in this film, he gave his full cooperation. However, he participated in the fight sequences directly without any rehearsal. This is because it’s something ingrained in Captain’s blood. When we shot a close-up scene of him, it was exactly like seeing Captain. This surprised us. We created his character’s look for this film based on his appearance in the film ‘Padaithalaivan’. Since the story of this film is set in 1996, we modified it accordingly. He provided complete cooperation during the shooting, regardless of day or night. The height and place he deserves are waiting for him in Tamil cinema.
Initially, I met them out of respect, at the invitation of Mrs. Premalatha Vijayakanth. It was she who asked me to create a story for Shanmuga. The idea for this story came to me only after that meeting. I would like to express my gratitude to them at this moment.
I would also like to express my gratitude to ‘Makkal Selvan’ Vijay Sethupathi for providing the voice-over for this film,” he said.
Producer Mukesh D Chelliah said, “Everyone comes to Chennai for cinema. Two people inspired me. One is Ilaiyaraaja. The other is Captain Vijayakanth. Their inspiration and their lifestyles are what motivate me.
Even today, Ilaiyaraaja starts his recording work at 6:00 AM and finishes around 6:00 PM before going home.” “The musical creation he delivers during this interim period is magnificent; there is no place he hasn’t reached.
Not only Captain Vijayakanth’s acting, but also his thoughts, ideas, and the characters he portrayed have deeply resonated in the hearts of the people. He didn’t just serve biryani; he served it with affection. Biryani was not just food, but also his love. It was after witnessing this that I came to Chennai. After a long time, I have now started film production. We need the blessings and support of all of you for our company. At this moment, I express my gratitude to all the actors and technical crew who worked on this film,” he said.
Actor Shanmuga Pandian said, “This film is a very special film for me. Many people with long experience in the film industry acted with me. Sarathkumar sir, a close friend of my father, has acted in this film. Since working on this film, he has also become a close friend of mine. All the days I spent with him are unforgettable. In particular, I learned from him his dedicated work ethic on the film set. He has helped many actors.
After watching Varuthapadatha Valibar Sangam, I also became a fan of director Ponram. I also had a desire to work on a film with him. I wondered if it would be possible to work with him. That has become a reality today. For that, I express my gratitude to him at this moment. He brought out the comedic acting and reactions that I possess. We did rehearsals and training before going to the shoot. On the film set, the director gave us a lot of freedom. He also created opportunities for us to improve the scenes. In particular, myself, Sarath sir, and Kalki acted in a scene involving a lorry. In that scene, we ourselves stopped at a certain point.
This film has a serious story. Director Ponram has narrated it with a blend of humor. I request all of you to go to the theaters and enjoy and experience it,” he said. Speaking at the event, actor Sarathkumar said, “I consider this event not just as the music launch of the film ‘Kombu Seevi,’ but as an emotionally significant occasion. Standing on this stage for this event, I cannot help but think of my dear friend Vijayakanth. If I start thinking about him, my eyes fill with tears. I cannot help but shed tears.
Mrs. Premalatha Vijayakanth spoke about friendship. Although director Ponram was one of the reasons for me to act in this film, I agreed to act in it as soon as I heard that Shanmuga Pandian was also acting. This is because, during a crucial period in my journey in the film industry, Vijayakanth’s makeup artist Raju, while searching for a villain for the film ‘Pulan Visaranai,’ recommended me to Vijayakanth, saying that Sarathkumar was well-built. Immediately, they took me to Vijayakanth’s office and presented me before him. As soon as he saw me, he told them to immediately arrange a meeting with director Selvamani and my friend Ravuthar. After seeing me…”
He had already made up his mind. At that time, the director and Vijayakanth were discussing something. I immediately went to a nearby barber shop, shaved off my mustache, and stood before them. That’s when this artistic journey began. It was an unforgettable moment.
After the film was completed and released, Vijayakanth told me something that no other hero would have shared. He said, ‘Sarath, you will get the biggest recognition in this film.’ Following that, I also acted in the film ‘Captain Prabhakaran’.
During the shooting of both ‘Pulan Visaranai’ and ‘Captain Prabhakaran’, I suffered serious injuries in the fight sequences. Even when others suggested alternative solutions, Vijayakanth firmly stated that they would wait until Sarath recovered before filming those scenes. His determination impressed me greatly, and it is that quality of his that has kept me bound to him to this day. I have experienced his talent, love, and affection firsthand.
Today, from this stage, I want to tell you something. Shanmuga Pandian will become a huge star actor in the future. There is no doubt about that. He is just like Captain Vijayakanth. On the film set, he interacts simply with everyone as an actor.
In this film, we didn’t just act as uncle and nephew; we lived the roles. My wish is that this family-like relationship continues.
I want to share just one thing with Shanmuga Pandian. Without feeling self-conscious about your height, you should choose and act in suitable stories that match your stature. You are the ‘Amitabh Bachchan of South India’. So, you should not bow your head and ask others for roles; instead, stand tall, listen to the scripts, and work.
I request everyone to go to the theaters and watch this film, ‘Kombu Seevi’. Because the joy that fans will experience watching this film in the theater is unique. Instead of waiting for a film to be released on a digital platform 30 days after its theatrical release, I urge everyone to come to the theaters and enjoy this film. At the same time, I would like to make a request to the digital platforms. It would be great if you could extend the 30-day window you currently give a film before its digital release to 50 days. This would encourage people to come to the theaters and enjoy the film. I request that digital platforms also contribute to bringing audiences back to the theaters, as this is essential for the healthy growth of the film industry.
This film takes a small aspect of agriculture and what farmers did during times when agriculture was not thriving, and the director has presented it with a touch of humor. I would like to express my gratitude to everyone who worked on this film,” he said.