Press Conference for the Web Series ‘Muthu Engira Kaattan’ Starring ‘Makkal Selvan’ Vijay Sethupathi, Releasing on Jio Hotstar
A press conference was held successfully in Chennai to promote ‘Muthu Engira Kaattan’—a ten-episode web series starring ‘Makkal Selvan’ Vijay Sethupathi, directed by Manikandan and B. Ajith Kumar, and set to premiere on the Jio Hotstar digital platform starting March 27th.
Created under the direction of National Award-winning filmmaker Manikandan and director-editor B. Ajith Kumar, the web series ‘Muthu Engira Kaattan’ features a stellar cast including Vijay Sethupathi, Milind Soman, Sudev Nair, Muthukumar, Singampuli, Kalaivani Bhaskar, VJ Parvathy, Risha Jacob, Vadivel Murugan, and Abi Nakshatra, among others. Madhu Neelakandan and Shanmugasundaram have jointly handled the cinematography for this series, while Rajesh Murugesan has composed the music. The series has been produced by actor Vijay Sethupathi under the banner of Vijay Sethupathi Productions for the Jio Hotstar digital platform.
The promotional event for the web series—which begins streaming on Jio Hotstar on March 27th—took place in Chennai and was attended by the entire cast and crew of the series.
Speaking at the event, Krishnan Kutty, Head of the South India Division at Jio Hotstar, stated: “We take great pride in presenting the web series ‘Muthu Engira Kaattan.’ Over the past three years, I have overseen 40 programs released on the Jio Hotstar platform; among them, the ‘Muthu Engira Kaattan’ series stands out as exceptional. We believe that this endeavor marks a significant step forward in the next phase of Jio Hotstar’s journey. Vijay Sethupathi’s contribution to this project is truly special.” “In the very first episode of the story, only the hero’s head makes an appearance. This is truly unique.
The journey undertaken with this team has been a long one; we have been working alongside them for nearly two and a half years. The entire journey was filled with warmth and affection. This marks our first collaboration with Vijay Sethupathi’s production house.
We have previously worked with Vijay Sethupathi on the Bigg Boss reality show. I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to him for this collaboration.
I also extend my thanks to Director Manikandan, who spearheaded this web series. He served as the backbone of this entire project. My thanks also go to Director Ajith Kumar and Screenwriter Rajkumar. Furthermore, I wish to thank all the actors, actresses, and technical crew members who contributed their talents. I am confident that this web series will transcend borders, reach audiences far and wide, and emerge as a resounding success,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, Pradeep, Senior Vice President of Content at the Jio Hotstar digital platform, stated: “When Director Manikandan first pitched this project to us, it resonated deeply with everyone on our team. Subsequently, we met with Vijay Sethupathi. During that meeting, he assured us, ‘I am approaching this story with absolute sincerity and soul. I understand this subject matter intimately. It may not be possible to complete this project within a rigid, predetermined timeframe; however, regardless of how long this project takes to materialize, I pledge my complete and unwavering cooperation.’ Receiving such a commitment from a star of his stature is, in itself, a remarkable feat. That assurance served as a tremendous source of encouragement for us. In terms of scale, this project represents the largest budget we have undertaken to date.
We commenced production work. However, unforeseen obstacles arose in a different form. After approximately 20 days of filming, several producers backed out of the project due to budgetary constraints. Consequently, we faced a critical juncture where it seemed the entire project might be shelved. At that moment, I met with Vijay Sethupathi to discuss the situation and made a personal request: ‘We urge you to step in and produce this project yourself.'” After giving it some thought, he subsequently stepped into the roles of both actor and producer.
The reason I share this is that we belong to the corporate world. In that environment, once a signature is placed on the dotted line, there is no scope to alter anything thereafter. Understanding this context, Vijay Sethupathi stood by us steadfastly until the very end. For this, I would like to express my gratitude to him once again.
We can state with absolute certainty that this is the highest-budget web series ever produced and released in the Tamil language. When this story begins, the only thing visible to the viewer is the severed head of the protagonist. Today, no major star actor in any film industry across India would ever agree to be part of a story like this. Only Vijay Sethupathi possesses the courage to say ‘yes’ to such a concept. That, precisely, is the true grandeur of this web series. Once you have seen that severed head, it becomes impossible for anyone to stop watching the story until its very conclusion.
Furthermore, this web series features a multitude of actors hailing not only from Tamil Nadu but also from Kerala and Mumbai. Consequently, this is truly a ‘Pan-Indian’ scale project,” he remarked.
Speaking on the occasion, Director and Editor B. Ajith Kumar said, “First and foremost, I would like to express my gratitude to Vijay Sethupathi, Director Manikandan, and Jio Hotstar. I initially began my work on this project solely as an editor. However, following the completion of the first schedule of filming, story discussions with the director continued uninterrupted. As Pradeep had previously mentioned…”
“When we encountered obstacles, more than a hundred people stood by us and offered their unwavering support. Jio Hotstar continued to provide us with their complete cooperation throughout the process. In particular, Vijay Sethupathi’s production house made a full and dedicated contribution to ensure that the creative output met the highest standards of quality.
Every single technician who worked with us is exceptionally talented. Each person worked tirelessly. Even the actors who played minor roles in this series delivered their performances with immense dedication and commitment.
Manikandan’s concept for this web series was truly brilliant. Through our collective discussions and collaborative efforts, we have transformed that idea into a creation that everyone can watch and enjoy today. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who worked hard to make this possible. I am confident that this web series will appeal to audiences from all walks of life,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, actor Milind Soman said, “It gives me great pleasure to stand here on this stage. This marks my debut performance in a Tamil web series. I would like to begin by expressing my gratitude to the entire team behind this project—comprising Vijay Sethupathi, Manikandan, and Jio Hotstar.
I was captivated by this story. In particular, the narrative kicks off with the severed head of a leading star actor—a premise that took me completely by surprise. When I asked the director, ‘Why me?’ for this specific role, he provided a comprehensive and articulate explanation. I would like to thank the director once again for placing his trust in me and entrusting me with this character.
It wasn’t just my character; everyone involved in this series worked together cohesively as a team. That spirit of collaboration also deeply impressed me. For this reason as well, I extend my sincere thanks to everyone,” he concluded.
Cinematographer Shanmugasundaram stated, “This marks my third collaboration with Vijay Sethupathi. I previously worked on the film Aandavan Kattalai, which was directed by Manikandan and starred Vijay Sethupathi.” “Subsequently, I worked on the film ’96’, starring Vijay Sethupathi. Both of these films were hits. We have now collaborated for a third time, and I am confident that this project, too, will be a success.
Only a filmmaker like Manikandan possesses the ability to handle screenplays of this nature. Prior to ‘Kaaka Muttai’, he directed a short film titled ‘Wind’. It featured just two characters: one was a corpse, and the other was Vijay Sethupathi. It didn’t feel like a typical short film; it felt like a full-length feature film. I was truly amazed when I watched it.
After watching the film ‘Kadaisi Vivasayi’, I spoke to Vijay and told him that I had admired and appreciated the hard work put into every single frame by both him and the team. In this web series, Vijay Sethupathi has ventured into the action-thriller genre. It features some massive action sequences that I am certain everyone will thoroughly enjoy,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, Cinematographer Madhu Neelakandan remarked, “I feel a sense of pride in having contributed to this project, working alongside such talented stars and exceptional technical artists.”
Music Director Rajesh Murugesan stated, “The journey I undertook with this team was a truly joyful experience. From the very moment Manikandan narrated the story, working on this project was an unforgettable and thrilling experience. It was also a pleasure to collaborate with Vijay Sethupathi, one of my favorite actors. Initially, we discussed the possibility of incorporating short musical pieces into every episode; however, as the screenplay evolved into its final form, we ended up with just three songs. Interestingly, the melody for one of those songs was actually composed by Vijay Sethupathi himself. I was captivated by the tune he hummed spontaneously on set, inspired by the atmosphere of the moment. We subsequently refined that melody and developed it into a full-fledged song,” he explained.
Screenplay Writer R. Rajkumar said, “I had the opportunity to collaborate with Director Manikandan on the screenplay for this project, and it was a wonderful experience. Director Manikandan is a dear friend.” We have known each other since before the film Kaaka Muttai—we have been friends for about ten or fifteen years. From that very moment, he would assist me with my screenplays, and I, in turn, would assist him with his.
For this web series, Manikandan’s concept was truly unique. It was based on a real-life incident that occurred in his father’s life. We began discussing how we could expand upon and develop this premise. We spent months deliberating over it. We had the “head”—but where was the “body”? Was he a good man? A villain? A murderer? A robber? Much like an investigation seeking answers to such questions, we crafted numerous sub-plots and constructed the series with intriguing, fresh, and unexpected twists. This represents a novel creative endeavor. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Manikandan for giving me the chance to be a part of it.
Based on the conversations we had, we could easily create two more web series; that is the extent to which we delved into the nuances of the characters.
The fact that Vijay Sethupathi chose this particular story is a monumental achievement. No mainstream “mass hero” would typically agree to take on such a project. Yet, Vijay Sethupathi placed immense faith in this script. I would like to take this moment to express my gratitude to him as well.
This web series is a novel experiment—and whenever a new experiment…
…Yes, Tamil fans will celebrate it,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, actress Abi Nakshatra said, “I am extremely happy to have been a part of this project. This team is massive, and the production itself is grand in scale. I have played the character ‘Chittu,’ a very lively and spirited young woman. I am confident that everyone will love this character. Vijay Sethupathi Sir has offered me encouragement and motivation on numerous occasions. With the support of the fans, I am certain this web series will achieve massive success.”
Actress VJ Parvathy shared, “I have waited many years for this very day. When I first received a call from Director Manikandan’s team, I honestly couldn’t believe it. However, my doubts vanished after I had a virtual meeting with Manikandan himself—after all, I grew up watching and admiring his work. They asked me to travel to Usilampatti for a meeting; I arrived dressed in modern attire. Once there, the costume designer handed me the traditional outfit of a young woman from Madurai. It was only when I stood for the photoshoot—wearing that traditional dress and absolutely no makeup—that I truly transformed into the character ‘Lalitha.’ I consider that moment both a privilege and a true blessing. Whenever the Vijay Sethupathi-Manikandan duo comes together, expectations run incredibly high among the audience. I feel incredibly fortunate to have been given the opportunity to play the role of Lalitha in this project; I am certain this experience will propel my career to the next level.”
Actress Risha Jacob remarked, “I feel a bit nervous right now. I have spoken on many stages before, but this particular stage feels entirely new to me. I am filled with joy, yet I find myself experiencing a mix of emotions. I would like to express my gratitude to Vijay Sethupathi Sir for giving me the opportunity to act in this project. Participating in the filming of this web series allowed me to learn a great deal—specifically, what to do, how far to push creative boundaries, and what to avoid doing. My sincere thanks go out to the entire team that worked alongside me on this production.” Speaking on the occasion, actor Vijay Sethupathi said, “From the moment we conceived this web series—Muthu (or Kaattan)—right up to this very moment, the sheer volume of events that have transpired behind the scenes could easily serve as material for two or three separate series. Overcoming all these hurdles, I would like to express my gratitude to everyone who worked tirelessly to ensure the release of this web series today. A special word of thanks goes to Jio Hotstar.
They might claim that I supported them; however, the primary reason for this project’s realization is the immense faith they placed in me. It was only after arriving here that I realized this is, in fact, the largest-scale web series ever produced in the Tamil language. My heartfelt thanks go to Pradeep, who stood by me throughout this entire experience. Whether it was Bigg Boss or this web series, his contribution has been truly exceptional.
One day, while I was at my office, Pradeep walked in. He leaned back comfortably on the sofa and asked me to do the same. So, I leaned back as well. He then began to speak, saying, ‘I am going to ask you for something, and you must not turn me down.’ It felt almost like a marriage proposal! I kept wondering what exactly he was going to ask of me. Finally, he revealed it: ‘You are the one who must host Bigg Boss.’ The moment he said it, I replied, ‘Sir, what exactly am I supposed to do in that? I know absolutely nothing about it. I haven’t even watched the show before. Why don’t you ask Simbu or Suriya instead? Simbu, in particular, already has experience with this kind of format.’ But Pradeep simply insisted, ‘No, you are the one who must do it.’
It has been like this on many occasions throughout my life. If I have reached a certain standing in my life today, it is not because of my own vast experience or connections; rather, it is solely due to the faith—for some inexplicable reason—that others have placed in me. I have never really had much faith in myself.
It is only after I complete a task and see others appreciate it that I realize, ‘Oh, I am actually capable of doing this job well.’ Before that moment, I remain unaware of my own potential. Yet, even before I realize it myself, there are people who place their trust in me. This remains the greatest wonder of my life. Manikandan, too, was exactly like that in this instance. Many such people have played a pivotal role in my life.” I have had friends—and still do—who placed their faith in me.
It was precisely because so many people believed in me in this way that I eventually began to believe in myself. In that regard, I would like to express my gratitude to everyone—including Pradeep—who placed their trust in me.
My acquaintance and subsequent friendship with Manikandan came about quite by chance one day. Through his friend, Vinoth, I received an opportunity to act in one of Manikandan’s short films. That very opportunity has led me all the way to where I stand today.
Manikandan’s intellect never ceases to amaze me. The perspectives from which he views any given subject are truly unique. As anyone who has worked with him here can attest, he possesses the ability to grasp the essence of a matter almost instantly. He has a remarkable knack for effortlessly drawing out the best acting performances from his actors. At times, it is only after a scene has been completed that one realizes just how many layers of thought and nuance he had woven into it. He is, indeed, a man who constantly surprises me in such ways.
I have known him since 2008. Everything he writes is engaging—and often, quite astonishing as well. This web series…
“He has delivered many wonderful films—including S—as well as magnificent songs. I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to him for this.
When a situation arose that prevented Manikandan from continuing his work, Ajith Kumar—who had been serving as the editor—stepped in to direct. Although I initially harbored some doubts regarding how this web series would unfold, Ajith took the reins beautifully and brought the project to a clear and successful conclusion. My thanks go to him as well.
At a certain juncture—during Manikandan’s absence, while Ajith Kumar was directing—I felt the need for someone to assist him; consequently, I reached out to Director Karthik—who helmed the film Udan Paal—and requested him to join the team. I approached him with a sense of familiarity and privilege, knowing that he possesses a deep, emotional understanding of our local milieu. I thank him for accepting my invitation and contributing his efforts to this project.
My sincere thanks go to all the cinematographers, the music composer, the actors, the actresses, and every member of the technical crew who worked on this production. The web series Muthu enra Kaattan is set to premiere on Jio Hotstar on March 27th. I am confident that everyone will enjoy it,” he said.