Trailer Launch Event for the Film ‘Neelira’ – Presented Jointly by Stone Bench Studios’ Karthikeyan Santhanam and Spirit Media’s Rana Daggubati
The trailer launch event for the film ‘Neelira’ was held in Chennai. Produced by leading figures of Indian cinema—Karthik Subbaraj and Rana Daggubati—and directed by documentary filmmaker Somidharan, the film stars Naveen Chandra and Kapila Venu. ‘Neelira’ is set to hit theaters worldwide starting April 3rd.
Presented by Karthikeyan Santhanam of Stone Bench Studios, ‘Neelira’ features a cast that includes Naveen Chandra, Vidhu, Roopa Koduvayur, Kapila Venu, ‘Kayal’ Vincent, Siddhu Kumaresan, Swathi Krishna, and many others. The film features cinematography by Selvarathnam Pratheepan, with music composed by K. Crafted as a survival thriller set against the backdrop of the Sri Lankan Civil War, the film had already garnered an overwhelming response following the release of its songs and teaser; subsequently, the official trailer launch ceremony was celebrated on a grand scale at a star hotel in Chennai. Joining the film crew at this event were leading creative figures who have left an indelible mark on the Tamil film industry, including Director Lokesh Ajils, Producer Karthikeyan Santhanam, Director Ram Kumar Balakrishnan, Director Vinothraj, Director Sasi, Actress Kapila Venu, Director Rathna Kumar, Director Pon Ram, Director Raju Murugan, Trotsky Marudu, Actresses Sidhu Kumaresan and Roopa Koduvayur, Writer Bava Chelladurai, Director Vasanthabalan, Actor Sananth, Director Lingusamy, Director A.R. Murugadoss, Actor Naveen Chandra, Director Somitharan, Director R.K. Selvamani, Director Lokesh Kanagaraj, Actor Rana Daggubati, Director Vetrimaaran, and Producer-Director Karthik Subbaraj. During the event, Mrs. Akila Balu Mahendra unveiled the trailer for the film Neelira.
Subsequently, while extending her best wishes to the film crew, Mrs. Akila Balu Mahendra addressed the gathering: “My husband was born in Jaffna, Sri Lanka. I was born in Batticaloa. It fills me with immense pride and joy that Somitharan has made a film about our hometown. Somitharan has fulfilled a wish of my husband. Had my husband been here today, he would have been overjoyed. I wish Somitharan’s film, Neelira, great success.”
Speaking at the event, Director Lokesh Ajils remarked: “I watched the film Neelira. As soon as I was told it was a film about war—a genre I am particularly fond of—I watched it with the expectation that it would be an artistic, arthouse creation. However, this film turned out to be a feature designed for mainstream cinema. It possessed all the requisite elements of a commercial entertainer. From the very beginning to the final frame, the film kept us on the edge of our seats.” “Generally, when watching a film, various thoughts related to it tend to cross our minds. However, while watching this film, my mind was solely occupied by the anticipation of what would happen next. Specifically, I found myself constantly wondering how the characters trapped inside that house would manage to survive the night.”
“After the film concluded, I met the director and, singling out a specific scene, offered him my heartfelt appreciation. I remarked, ‘The cinematography of this film felt incredibly true to life; it was visually stunning. In fact, even the moments of darkness seemed to glow with light.'”
Speaking on the occasion, Producer Karthikeyan Santhanam said: “I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to all the legends of the film industry who have graced us with their presence here today as special guests. Among you are those I have admired since my childhood, those I watched during my formative years, and those I have come to know in my adult life. It brings me immense joy to see all of you gathered here together.”
“Although I have been taking the stage to speak since I was eight years old, I must admit that I feel a distinct sense of nervousness standing on this particular stage. It fills us with immense pride to know that our production house is behind this film. I would also like to express my gratitude to Spirit Media for partnering with us on this project.”
“After returning from England, we launched Stone Bench Films in 2012. Karthik Subbaraj, Pavan, Kalyan, and I—the four of us—came together to establish the company. Our debut production was the film Meyaadha Maan. Neelira marks our 18th feature film.”
“I had known Director Somidharan even before we produced Meyaadha Maan. To put it in today’s context, Somi is not merely a friend to us; he has become our guardian deity—our Kula Sami. Such is the magnitude of the film he has crafted.” “While we have produced numerous films over the years, only a select few truly manage to touch the heart. In that regard, Neelira holds a very special place in our hearts. Everyone who has watched the film so far has commended us, acknowledging that we have indeed produced a truly fine motion picture. We are confident that both the media and the audience will embrace and appreciate this film.” Having decided to release this film and while planning whom to screen it for, we first reached out to actor Rana and arranged a screening for him. Immediately upon watching it, he declared that his support was assured. Subsequently, we screened the film for AGS Entertainment; they, too, were delighted to undertake its release across the entire state of Tamil Nadu.
stepped forward with enthusiasm. Ahimsa Entertainment is releasing this film worldwide. We are releasing this movie in the best possible manner, to the very best of our ability. We are confident that this film will create a positive ripple effect. We composed a song specifically for this movie, and Sony Music is releasing it.
“We never anticipated that this film would garner such immense support. If this has become a reality, I would like to take this moment to express my gratitude to everyone who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make it happen,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, Director Ram Kumar Balakrishnan said, “We watched this film just a week ago. When we began watching it, we went in without any preconceived notions or understanding of what it was about. As we watched, however, the narrative held us in a gripping suspense—constantly making us wonder, ‘What happens next? What happens next?’ It truly gave us the distinct feeling of having watched a thriller film. What I loved most about this movie was the cast. The actors chosen for each specific role were perfectly suited to the story. When the actors truly internalize and portray their characters, they effortlessly draw the audience into those roles, almost without us even realizing it. My congratulations to Director Somitharan, and my thanks to the producers who have produced and are releasing this film.” Speaking on the occasion, Director Vinoth Raj said, “When we received the invitation to watch this film, we began watching it with a specific mindset—anticipating a story set against the backdrop of the Sri Lankan civil war, wondering just how heavy the subject matter would be and how we would emotionally bear that weight. However, what we actually experienced felt more like watching a thriller. The film was incredibly engaging and gripping—truly a testament to its craftsmanship.
Director Somithran shared many details with us regarding the casting process and his selection of actors for this film. That itself was a fascinating conversation; I extend my best wishes to him.
If I were to single out the film’s greatest strength, it would undoubtedly be its presentation and its cinematic language. Every aspect—the cinematography, locations, performances, and editing—was exceptional. In particular, that house… anyone who watches this film will find that house etched in their memory long after they leave the theater.
Karthik Subbaraj has consistently featured the stories and sentiments of Sri Lankan Tamils in his films. By attaching his name as a producer to this project, he further demonstrates his deep affection for the Sri Lankan Tamil people. Karthik Subbaraj and Karthikeyan Santhanam can truly take pride in having produced this film,” he concluded.
Speaking next, Director Sasi remarked, “There is a dedicated WhatsApp group for film directors. In that group, Karthik Subbaraj posted a message stating, ‘We are hosting a screening for a film titled Neelira. I request everyone to attend.’ Immediately after reading that message, I received a phone call from Director Lingusamy. He told me, ‘I actually watched this film a year ago at a film festival. It is an excellent movie; do not miss it.’ Lingusamy is the kind of person who—if he watches a film like Baahubali—will immediately tell you, ‘Go watch it now!’ Similarly, if he watches a film like Kottukkaali, he will again insist, ‘Go watch it immediately!’ He appreciates all genres of cinema, provided, of course, that the film manages to entertain him. Therefore, regarding Neelira…” It became clear that this was an entertaining film. Although the title caused me a bit of confusion, I went to watch the movie simply because Lingusamy had recommended it.
First and foremost, I extend my congratulations and gratitude to the two technical artists—the Art Director and the Cinematographer—whose work brought the Eelam issue and the lives of the Eelam people vividly to life right before our eyes. I thank them for creating the immersive illusion that one was actually inside a home within Eelam, amidst a war-torn environment. The actors, too, have delivered exceptional performances.
This film has been produced by Karthik Subbaraj, Karthikeyan Santhanam, and Rana Daggubati. Had Director Somitharan merely asked, renowned stars could easily have been cast in this film. Instead, he chose to craft this movie relying solely on the strength of its screenplay. While watching the film, I was struck with admiration for the director’s distinct artistic vision and personality.
There is a specific point in the film that appears to be the climax; yet, once that moment passes, the director proceeds to convey an entirely different narrative layer. “To the producers: be bold! You have delivered a successful film—congratulations!” he remarked.
Speaking on the occasion, actress Kapila Venu said, “I am not a conventional film actress. I am a stage performer specializing in traditional art forms, specifically a Bharatanatyam artist. Director Somitharan selected me for this role because he felt I bore a resemblance to his own mother. For this, I express my heartfelt gratitude to him. I am truly delighted to have had the opportunity to contribute to this film.”
“At this moment, I would also like to extend my thanks to all my fellow artists who acted alongside me in this film, including actor Naveen Chandra.”
“Director Somitharan is a gifted storyteller. Before we even began filming, he organized a ten-day workshop during which he narrated the entire story to the cast and crew. He even detailed exactly which objects were to be placed in which specific rooms within the house featured in the film…”
…stepped forward with enthusiasm. Ahimsa Entertainment is releasing this film worldwide. We are releasing this movie in the best possible manner, to the very best of our ability. We are confident that this film will create a positive ripple effect. We composed a song specifically for this movie, and Sony Music is releasing it.
“We never anticipated that this film would garner such immense support. If this has become a reality, I would like to take this moment to express my gratitude to everyone who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make it happen,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, Director Ram Kumar Balakrishnan said, “We watched this film just a week ago. When we began watching it, we went in without any preconceived notions or understanding of what it was about. As we watched, however, the narrative held us in a gripping suspense—constantly making us wonder, ‘What happens next? What happens next?’ It truly gave us the distinct feeling of having watched a thriller film. What I loved most about this movie was the cast. The actors chosen for each specific role were perfectly suited to the story. When the actors truly internalize and portray their characters, they effortlessly draw the audience into those roles, almost without us even realizing it. My congratulations to Director Somitharan, and my thanks to the producers who have produced and are releasing this film.” Speaking on the occasion, Director Vinoth Raj said, “When we received the invitation to watch this film, we began watching it with a specific mindset—anticipating a story set against the backdrop of the Sri Lankan civil war, wondering just how heavy the subject matter would be and how we would emotionally bear that weight. However, what we actually experienced felt more like watching a thriller. The film was incredibly engaging and gripping—truly a testament to its craftsmanship.
Director Somithran shared many details with us regarding the casting process and his selection of actors for this film. That itself was a fascinating conversation; I extend my best wishes to him.
If I were to single out the film’s greatest strength, it would undoubtedly be its presentation and its cinematic language. Every aspect—the cinematography, locations, performances, and editing—was exceptional. In particular, that house… anyone who watches this film will find that house etched in their memory long after they leave the theater.
Karthik Subbaraj has consistently featured the stories and sentiments of Sri Lankan Tamils in his films. By attaching his name as a producer to this project, he further demonstrates his deep affection for the Sri Lankan Tamil people. Karthik Subbaraj and Karthikeyan Santhanam can truly take pride in having produced this film,” he concluded.
Speaking next, Director Sasi remarked, “There is a dedicated WhatsApp group for film directors. In that group, Karthik Subbaraj posted a message stating, ‘We are hosting a screening for a film titled Neelira. I request everyone to attend.’ Immediately after reading that message, I received a phone call from Director Lingusamy. He told me, ‘I actually watched this film a year ago at a film festival. It is an excellent movie; do not miss it.’ Lingusamy is the kind of person who—if he watches a film like Baahubali—will immediately tell you, ‘Go watch it now!’ Similarly, if he watches a film like Kottukkaali, he will again insist, ‘Go watch it immediately!’ He appreciates all genres of cinema, provided, of course, that the film manages to entertain him. Therefore, regarding Neelira…” It became clear that this was an entertaining film. Although the title caused me a bit of confusion, I went to watch the movie simply because Lingusamy had recommended it.
First and foremost, I extend my congratulations and gratitude to the two technical artists—the Art Director and the Cinematographer—whose work brought the Eelam issue and the lives of the Eelam people vividly to life right before our eyes. I thank them for creating the immersive illusion that one was actually inside a home within Eelam, amidst a war-torn environment. The actors, too, have delivered exceptional performances.
This film has been produced by Karthik Subbaraj, Karthikeyan Santhanam, and Rana Daggubati. Had Director Somitharan merely asked, renowned stars could easily have been cast in this film. Instead, he chose to craft this movie relying solely on the strength of its screenplay. While watching the film, I was struck with admiration for the director’s distinct artistic vision and personality.
There is a specific point in the film that appears to be the climax; yet, once that moment passes, the director proceeds to convey an entirely different narrative layer. “To the producers: be bold! You have delivered a successful film—congratulations!” he remarked.
Speaking on the occasion, actress Kapila Venu said, “I am not a conventional film actress. I am a stage performer specializing in traditional art forms, specifically a Bharatanatyam artist. Director Somitharan selected me for this role because he felt I bore a resemblance to his own mother. For this, I express my heartfelt gratitude to him. I am truly delighted to have had the opportunity to contribute to this film.”
“At this moment, I would also like to extend my thanks to all my fellow artists who acted alongside me in this film, including actor Naveen Chandra.”
“Director Somitharan is a gifted storyteller. Before we even began filming, he organized a ten-day workshop during which he narrated the entire story to the cast and crew. He even detailed exactly which objects were to be placed in which specific rooms within the house featured in the film…”
“I am well aware that this film will leave a lasting impression. Working on this project has been an unforgettable experience,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, Director Rathna Kumar remarked, “I take great pride in standing on this stage and acknowledging that I was the director of Meyaadha Maan—the debut film produced by Stone Bench Films. Both Sananth—the lead actor in my first film—and Vidhu—who is currently starring in the film I am directing—have acted in this movie. This, too, brings me immense joy.
Whenever I direct a film that features Sri Lankan characters, Director Somitharan has collaborated with me to fine-tune the linguistic nuances and background dialect for those roles. Even back then, he would be very firm and precise about exactly how the pronunciation should be. It was during those interactions that I realized what a formidable creator he was, and how powerful his future works would be.
I am familiar with many dialects of Tamil, but my personal favorite is Sri Lankan Tamil. I absolutely love the way they speak the language. I was particularly delighted that this distinct style of speech was featured throughout the entire film.
Neelira is a film with a runtime of just one and a half hours; one could certainly highlight this brevity as one of its key strengths. There was a film titled Sinners that won an Academy Award; that movie was packed with multiple layers—it was rich in political subtext and deep ideological themes. Much like that film, Neelira also conveys its message through moments of silence in many of its scenes.
This film will undoubtedly reshape our perspective on the Sri Lankan conflict. We often harbor the illusion that war is something distant—something far removed from our own lives. Yet, when one nation drops bombs on another somewhere across the globe, the ripple effect can be felt right here—perhaps as simply as the egg bondas being unavailable at the corner shop on our street because there are no gas cylinders. Therefore, such conflicts inevitably impact us all.
I am confident that, through this film, audiences will gain a much deeper understanding of the hardships and suffering endured by our brothers and sisters in our neighboring country. After all, we have all experienced hardship ourselves—even if only for a brief period—during the recent lockdown.” “However, Eelam Tamils have been enduring hardships there for several decades,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, Director Ponram remarked, “Many films regarding the Sri Lankan issue and its people have been released in the past. When I began watching this film, I started with no preconceived notions about what it would be like. I have known Director Somitharan for three years.
Initially, I did not understand what ‘Neelira’ meant. When I subsequently asked him, Somitharan explained that it signifies ‘The Long Night.’ We have reached a point where English subtitles are required even for a Tamil film; naturally, I wondered how such a movie could entertain us. I am a filmmaker who typically produces commercial comedies. However, once I started watching, the film picked up momentum after a certain point. It is a fantastic thriller. The director has balanced every element perfectly; that is the film’s greatest highlight. Above all else, the true highlight of this movie lies in its ability to portray the lives of ordinary people within the framework of a thriller.”
Speaking at the event, Director Raju Murugan stated, “We are currently situated in a critical environment of warfare. When we think of how wars are waged—the missiles, weaponry, and bombings we witness—that constitutes just one side of the reality. On the other side, an ideological war is being waged silently. I view this as the most significant aspect of all. First comes the ideological war; only then does the armed conflict follow.
A war of such massive scale took place in Eelam. Many people like me harbor a deep regret that not a single feature film has been released addressing that conflict. ‘Neelira’ stands as the very first film to break that silence.
My gratitude to Director Somitharan lies in this: amidst the global landscape of warfare, you have successfully established a distinct genre known as ‘Eelam Cinema.’ While many creators have previously produced short-form works in this vein, I regard ‘Neelira’ as the first truly polished and sophisticated feature film to emerge within the realm of modern Eelam Cinema.” “I thank Somitharan for this,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, writer Bava Chelladurai remarked, “The director of this film, Somitharan, and I share a friendship spanning nearly twenty years.
Writer Prabhanjan once penned a line: ‘Even after all this, a flower does indeed bloom.’ This line can be aptly applied to the context of Eelam; for, even after enduring so much, a flower truly continues to bloom in Eelam. And everyone, without exception, admires that flower.
I have had the privilege of personally visiting and experiencing many of the locations featured in this film. In truth, it was Balu Mahendra who first discovered the magnificent artist known as Somitharan.
It was Balu Mahendra and I who, together, officiated Somitharan’s wedding in a town near Kanchipuram. I count myself as one among the hundreds of thousands of admirers eagerly awaiting Somitharan’s success,” he stated.
Director Vasanthabalan, in his address, said, “I deeply admire Karthik Subbaraj’s Iraivi, as well as his Jigarthanda DoubleX. He consistently articulates a distinct political perspective through his work. I view Neeliravu as a film that echoes this sentiment—a film that calls for love to rise as the ultimate virtue.
The manner in which Somitharan has portrayed a war film—devoid of swords, the sound of gunfire, bloodshed, or even a single on-screen death—stands as a testament to the profound intensity of art.
The reason I cherish this film is that, from absolute nothingness, it creates a……introduced Director Somitharan to me.
At that time, I made a request to Karthik: “This is a very significant film for Tamil cinema. Do not release it immediately; instead, ensure it is promoted properly so that it reaches a wide audience and connects with the people.”
Understanding this advice perfectly, he waited for the right moment, and now—at this auspicious juncture—the film is being released. Congratulations! Currently, small-budget films are consistently achieving success. I would describe this period as the ‘Golden Age’ for small films in Tamil cinema. Over the past two or three months alone, seven small-budget films have emerged victorious. In that same vein, this film, too, stands a strong chance of becoming a massive success.
The film begins in a seemingly ordinary manner; yet, without explicitly depicting a battlefield or the actual warfare, it effectively evokes the fear and tension of a war zone in the audience through the performances of its characters.
Each character vividly and realistically portrays the pain and suffering endured by Eelam Tamils. After watching this film, I traveled to Jaffna. My original plan was to return within a single day; however, I ended up staying there for seven days.
I urge everyone to go and watch this film in a theater. Only then will you truly experience the immersive sensation of being present within that war-torn environment.
“Furthermore, since this film serves as a testament that Tamil cinema now stands on par with global cinematic standards, it is a movie that everyone absolutely must go and watch in a theater,” he stated.
Speaking on the occasion, Director Lokesh Kanagaraj said, “Although I received an invitation to watch this film earlier, I was unable to do so at the time. However, I asked my friend Ratna about it, and he told me that he had wept at several points throughout the movie. Like everyone else, I, too, am waiting until April 3rd so that I can experience this film alongside the general audience.
Themes related to Sri Lanka and the Sri Lankan Tamil community feature prominently in every film directed by Karthik Subbaraj. I believe he produced this particular film out of a deep conviction that these stories and narratives must continue to be told. I wish this film every success,” he said.
Speaking next, actor Rana Daggubati remarked, “This film is, in essence, the story of Somitharan’s own life.” This is an exceptional film for the next generation.
Speaking at the event, the directors noted that while numerous films have been released regarding the wars fought in countries like Germany and Vietnam, very few—if any—have been produced on Indian soil concerning our own conflicts. It was precisely for this reason that, five years ago, our company—Spirit Media—resolved to produce creative works rooted in our land and reflective of our culture. We have since been producing culturally-centric narratives across various languages—initially in Malayalam and Marathi, and currently in Tamil and Telugu. I consider it a matter of great pride to have collaborated with Karthik Subbaraj’s Stone Bench Studios on this film.
Somitharan is an immensely talented individual. He has crafted a gripping narrative—unfolding entirely within the confines of a single home—without the need for a battlefield setting or even a single gunshot. I have watched this film three times myself. Given the current global climate of conflict, I believe we are releasing this film at a truly opportune moment,” he remarked.
Speaking on the occasion, Director Vetrimaaran stated: “This film is the creation of a friend who hails from Eelam. Together with another young man from Eelam, he has transformed his own pain and memories into a cinematic experience. For making this possible, I extend my gratitude to Karthik Subbaraj and his entire team.
We have grown up viewing the suffering of our brethren as our own suffering. Nevertheless, I offer my congratulations to Somitharan for successfully translating this sentiment into reality through the medium of cinema. As a writer, Somitharan’s achievement is truly extraordinary—and quite unexpected.
This film does not preach hatred; nor does it endorse violence. It is not a propaganda piece. Neither is it a grandiose, multi-crore production created solely to champion a specific ideology. It is, quite simply, a film that refuses to monetize hatred or violence.
It is a film that narrates events organically, without subjecting anyone to direct criticism.” “Against hatred, films like this are the only response we can offer,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, Director Karthik Subbaraj remarked, “This is an unforgettable moment. I am grateful to the directors whom I have long admired for coming here to offer their appreciation and support for this film.
When we began work on this project, I viewed it as a monumental responsibility. We have produced 18 films to date; while we often anticipate success for some of them, that success does not always materialize. However, this film is different. Had we mishandled the making of this movie, the dreams of countless directors and creators—such as Somitharan—would have been shattered.
Cinema stands as the ultimate art form for narrating stories set against the backdrop of war. Consequently, I was constantly filled with a sense of anxiety, driven by the imperative to execute this project with absolute precision.
I have harbored a deep sense of empathy for Eelam Tamils since my childhood. I believe that following the release of this film, if creators like Somitharan bring forward similar stories, major production houses will step forward to produce them. Whether or not this film provides the complete courage required for such endeavors, I am confident that it will serve as a pivotal starting point.”
[He continued,] “On every single day of the shoot, my sole focus was ensuring that the creative outcome would be nothing short of excellence…”
“Somitharan worked with a profound sense of responsibility. It is an emotion that lies beyond our immediate grasp—an emotion that Director Somitharan has portrayed with remarkable precision in the film,” he said.