Launch Ceremony of the Biopic ‘M.S.: A Legacy on Screen’ (Based on the Life of ‘Bharat Ratna’ M.S. Subbulakshmi)
The launch ceremony for the film M.S.: A Legacy on Screen—a collaborative project involving producers Allu Aravind, Rockline Venkatesh, Benny Vasu, and Gowtam Tinnanuri, along with Rashmika Mandanna and Anirudh—was held in Chennai.
Kamal Haasan, a Rajya Sabha MP and a star of Indian cinema, inaugurated the traditional launch event of M.S.: A Legacy on Screen—a biopic based on the life of the musical genius and ‘Bharat Ratna’ recipient M.S. Subbulakshmi—by sounding the clapboard.
Directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Gowtam Tinnanuri, the film features ‘National Crush’ Rashmika Mandanna in the role of M.S. Subbulakshmi. With music composed by Anirudh, the film is being jointly produced by Allu Aravind, Rockline Venkatesh, and Benny Vasu under the banners of Geetha Arts, Rockline Entertainment, and Benny Vasu Films.
The launch ceremony took place at The Music Academy in Chennai, a venue that played an integral role in M.S. Subbulakshmi’s musical journey. Family members and well-wishers of M.S. Subbulakshmi, along with film producers and leading stars from the film industry, attended the event as special guests. Musicians came together to perform songs originally sung by the melodious S. Subbulakshmi, offering a musical tribute to her.
Following this, the film’s director, Gowtam Tinnanuri, spoke:
“First, I extend my gratitude to the respected family of M.S. Subbulakshmi. Born and raised in a musical environment in Madurai, she was just a ten-year-old girl when she entered the world of music and went on to bring global acclaim to South India. When looking at M.S. Amma’s life, the Bharat Ratna award, her immense sacrifices, and her performances on grand stages were certainly significant parts of her journey. Yet, beneath all that, she was a woman of profound humanity.
While she possessed a multifaceted personality—as a daughter, singer, actress, woman, and artist—her life also holds a powerful message for the next generation.
Our film crew holds her in the highest regard and affection. We thank God for the opportunity to create a biopic of M.S. Amma. With the blessings and good wishes of everyone present here, we will work sincerely to beautifully capture her dedication and devotion in this biographical film.”
Lyricist Madhan Karky said:
“Creating a biopic of M.S. Amma has been a long-cherished dream for many. I first want to thank the producers for making that dream a reality.
Generally, making a biopic comes with numerous challenges, especially when the subject has led a life of such immense success.
When I was a child, my mother interviewed M.S. Amma for Kumudam magazine.” I had seen them back then, though I didn’t know much about them at the time. Like everyone else, I only knew a few details—such as the fact that they sang the song “Kurai Ondrum Illai.”
Later, when my friend Rajiv Menon and I discussed creating some songs, Bombay Jayashree, Karthik, and I collaborated on a few tracks. It was an unforgettable experience. That was when I began to learn about M.S. Amma’s life.
Director Gautham wrote a screenplay and gave it to me to read. Reading it made me realize what a beautiful life M.S. Amma had led. It wasn’t just a beautiful life; I also learned about the immense opposition she faced and how she triumphed despite it all. I also came to understand the significance of the Chennai Music Academy—where this event is taking place—in her life. Time and again, she broke barriers and overcame obstacles. That is why I felt her story needed to be told. I would like to thank Director Gautham once again for this; he crafted her life story with great finesse.
A massive challenge awaits everyone working on this film. Take the director, for instance. Many directors have come before, yet he has accomplished something they could not: turning M.S. Amma’s life story into a film. There is great anticipation regarding how he will succeed in this challenge.
Anirudh is composing the music for this film, and he, too, faces a tremendous challenge with this project.
“The fans are the ones who hold the key to this challenge. He has captivated the audience by creating a modern musical score that appeals to everyone. At the same time, he must uphold the musical integrity of the film; a massive challenge awaits him.
Similarly, Rashmika Mandanna is playing the role of MS Amma in this film. She may have portrayed numerous characters in the past, but making the audience forget all those previous roles and truly transforming into MS Amma is a formidable challenge.
Everyone involved faces a challenge here. Yet, it is MS Amma herself who provides the courage to overcome these hurdles, for the challenges we face pale in comparison to those she confronted. That is why working on this film brings me such immense joy,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, producer Rockline Venkatesh said:
“I extend my gratitude to all the friends from the film fraternity present here—Sivakumar, Mahendran, Samuthirakani, producer Kalaipuli S. Thanu, Suhasini, and others.
We have been striving to make a film based on MS Amma’s life story for nearly seven or eight years. In the current climate, finding a good story and turning it into a film is difficult; adapting a biography into a movie is even more challenging. Over the past seven years, the three of us—Allu Aravind, Benny Vasu, and I—conducted extensive research and worked together to plan this project.
Many others, like us, aspired to make a film about MS Amma’s life. However, I believe it was MS Amma herself who chose the three of us. She chose not only us but also the director. When we were in talks with director Gowtam Tinnanuri, he declined an opportunity to direct another film, insisting instead that he would direct this one.” “Selecting an actress to portray M.S. Amma was no easy task. After much deliberation, we approached Rashmika, and she wholeheartedly agreed to take on the role. Above all, the cooperation and contribution of M.S. Amma’s family members were paramount in bringing this film to fruition. We extend our gratitude to them as well,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, producer Kalaipuli S. Thanu said:
“I offer my gratitude and best wishes to the three producers—my dear friends—who are making a biopic of M.S. Amma, a legend who left an indelible mark on the music world with titles like ‘Isaiyarasi’ (Queen of Music) and ‘Gana Kuyil’ (Melodious Nightingale).
Anirudh is composing the music for this film. While this is a challenging task for him, he has the blessings of his grandfather, Ramanan. He will create a musical score that the entire world will admire; this film will spark a musical revolution. This film represents the hope of the future. I extend my best wishes to the director.
Rajiv Menon, Suresh Chakravarthy, and I had previously attempted to produce a biopic on M.S. Amma. This is a monumental project. M.S. Amma brought great honor to the nation by performing at Rashtrapati Bhavan and was a recipient of the Bharat Ratna. Her era was the golden age of music.
The rights to the film Meera, in which she starred, are held by her family members, including Sadasivam. I urge the film crew to acquire the rights, study the film closely, and observe their mannerisms, attire, and body language.
This film is a magnificent treasure for the world of cinema—a timeless gem. My best wishes to everyone,” he said. Speaking on the occasion, actor Samuthirakani said:
“I consider it a matter of pride to stand on this stage at the launch of a film based on the autobiography of M.S. Amma, coinciding with her 110th birth anniversary. The three producers have come together to create a monumental historical work, and I am delighted to play a small part in it. I had the opportunity to speak with director Gautham; the details he shared about M.S. Amma suggest there is enough material to make the film in multiple parts—she traversed such a vast journey. Hearing about it gave me immense joy. I offer my heartfelt wishes to this team; this film will stand as a significant historical record.”
Actor Sivakumar said:
“The launch of this film is taking place in the presence of ‘Ulaganayagan’ Kamal Haasan. It is interesting to note that this film is being produced by the Telugu film industry; they are doing what we ought to have done. I salute them for this initiative; it is a matter of pride.
I read about her life during my childhood. I heard that there wasn’t even a radio in her home to listen to music; instead, she would go to a nearby park to listen. A woman who came from such humble beginnings… I have also read about how Sadasivam helped her perform at various Sabhas (concert venues). When I heard that a biographical film was being made about that magnificent lady and that Anirudh would be composing the music…”
“…was a happy experience. My best wishes to everyone,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, producer Allu Aravind said:
“I thank Kamal Haasan for attending as the special guest. I am grateful that he agreed immediately, without any hesitation, when asked to participate in this event. I visited the venue this morning and saw a large photograph of M.S. Amma. It made me realize that it wasn’t merely us producing her biopic; rather, she had chosen us to bring her life story to the screen. Seeing that photograph was an emotional moment for me. Similarly, Rashmika playing her role was truly her [M.S. Amma’s] choice. Why make a film about M.S. Amma’s life? She was a musician, a singer, and an achiever—but beyond these identities, there were many significant events in her life. That is what inspired us to create this biopic.
Her life was defined by principles, discipline, integrity, and dedication—especially during the years between the ages of ten and twenty, a time of great hardship when she lived without ever compromising her individuality. There was also her unwavering faith in and passion for music. I do not wish to elaborate further; all of this is captured in the film.
Few are aware of the hardships and difficult moments she faced in her youth. The film’s director, Gowtham, spent the past year conducting research, meeting various people, and writing the screenplay. I extend my gratitude to him and his team for their efforts.
Director Gowtham won a National Award for his debut film. He agreed to work on this massive project.” However, as soon as we mentioned that we were planning to produce a biopic of M.S. Amma, he stepped away from his other commitments and happily agreed to work on this project.
Producer Rockline Venkatesh has consistently supported our vision to create this film over the past seven years. Although many had attempted to make a film about M.S. Amma’s life, he remained confident in this project. Ultimately, he secured the rights to produce the film from M.S. Amma’s family members. Her entire family has extended their wholehearted support for the making of this film, and I express my gratitude to all of them.
Why should Anirudh compose the music for this film? He serves as a musical bridge connecting the current younger generation with the next. He possesses the unique ability to unite Gen Z with the music of previous generations.
We listen to a vast amount of music every day. Yet, every morning upon waking, we listen to the Suprabatham sung by M.S. Amma. While we encounter countless musical forms and styles through social media today, we rarely choose to recreate them. However, we are not recreating M.S. Amma’s music—nor could we ever do so.
We are creating a biopic of the musical legend M.S. Amma. Anirudh might have agreed to compose for other films, but the moment it was announced that he would be composing for this one, not only her family but music lovers everywhere eagerly awaited the kind of music he would deliver. When considering whom to invite as the special guest for the film’s launch, no one other than Kamal Haasan came to mind. On behalf of our team, I extend our heartfelt thanks to him for gracing the occasion and inaugurating the traditional commencement of the shoot. “I believe that the blessings of MS Amma—who sits in this auditorium, unseen by our eyes, yet enjoying the occasion—are with us all,” she said.
Speaking on the occasion, actress Rashmika Mandanna said:
“Right now, there is only one feeling in my heart: gratitude. It brings me joy to see you all gathered here today to mark this special day for MS Amma. Thank you for this. Happy Birthday, MS Amma. Today, as we celebrate your birthday, we hope that you are sitting somewhere in this auditorium, enjoying the event with a gentle smile on your face. That alone brings us happiness. Your voice possesses a unique, divine power; whenever I hear it, I feel as though I am sitting in the presence of the Divine. Amma, you chose me to be a small part of your life story, and for that, I will be forever indebted to you. Your blessings—along with the blessings of Sadasivam Sir, Shanmukhavadivu Amma, and your entire family—mean the world to me.”
“We seek the blessings and good wishes of our well-wishers for both our team and ourselves. I assure you that I will give my best contribution to this project,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, actor Kamal Haasan said:
“When I started out as a child actor, I didn’t know if that life would continue. My father sent me into cinema just for fun; he wanted me to study. Academics weren’t my strong suit. It was only later that I began to understand music. Since I wasn’t good at studies, I decided to pursue whatever I actually understood. I pursued music because I grasped it, though I didn’t excel remarkably in it. Later, I actively sought out and learned dance. I worked as a dance assistant, then as an assistant director—where I used to operate the clapperboard. Now, I have performed the ‘clap’ [ceremonial opening] again, and I am very happy about it.
I had met the director of that film—Ellis R. Dungan. He was a pivotal ‘Godfather’ figure in Tamil cinema. He came here at the age of eighty-eight to make a documentary. I had a strong desire to work as his assistant director back then and even got his autograph. However, I always regretted not being able to work with him. I thank the producers of this film for alleviating that regret.
M.S. Amma embodied the unifying power of music; she was, in particular, the voice of South India. She sang in many languages, including Tamil, Sanskrit, Hindi, and Telugu. Her pronunciation in Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada was impeccable—a standard that serves as a lesson for people like me even today.
In Tamil Nadu, people in every household have heard the song ‘Ranga Poorva Vihara’ sung by her. Her rendition of the Suprabhatam is played in temples every day.” There are many compositions, such as the Lalita Sahasranama. Yet, more than any of these, the song “Rangapura Vihara” fills my heart with a distinct sense of joy. It was originally composed by a musician senior to M.S. Amma. However, when M.S. Amma sang it, she seemed to multiply the song’s age—and its legacy—threefold through the sheer beauty of her voice.
I have known her only as an admirer; I never had the privilege of being close to her, nor did I possess the standing to claim such proximity. Near the venue of this event, there is a small music academy run by Balamuralikrishna—the very person from whom I learned music. I often heard him speak about M.S. Amma, and it was through those conversations that I truly grasped her greatness. Later, while making the film Hey Ram, I had the opportunity to meet her. My motive was somewhat self-serving; I wanted her to sing for the film because I felt that a movie about my protagonist, Karamchand Gandhi, simply had to feature her voice. However, that wish remained unfulfilled as she was unwell at the time. It was on a recommendation from her household that I approached D.K. Pattammal. She, too, was in poor health, yet we managed to record her voice while she sat in a wheelchair. I have had the privilege of being close to three powerful, iconic women: M.S. Amma, D.K. Pattammal, and M.L. Vasanthakumari. All three have blessed me by placing their hands upon my head. That is precisely why I agreed to attend this event the moment I was asked. This is an honor for me. I extend my best wishes to the producers, the director, and the music composer—especially Anirudh—involved in this film.
Just as the film Arangetram marked a major turning point for Balachander, and Sankarabharanam did the same for director K. Viswanath, composing the music for this film will bring about a massive transformation and a pivotal moment in Anirudh’s career. I urge Anirudh to create something truly significant with this film, as I am well aware of the path he is currently on. This is a huge responsibility for Director Gautham. You don’t need to sacrifice your life for this; hard work alone will suffice. There is no room for error here, because MS Amma herself wrote the screenplay before she left us; all that is needed is to refine it. She has made the director’s job much easier.
More than being someone worthy of worship, MS Amma was someone deeply loved by us all—and that is what you must portray on screen. There are many here who revere her; it is the love and affection she showed that needs to be reflected on screen.
MS Amma was truly India’s first ‘Pan-Indian Lady Superstar.’ She possessed immense talent; she was not merely an actress—she played the Veena and was a dancer. The songs from the film Meera still resonate in our ears to this day.
Think of the anxiety the actor must have felt while making the film about Michael Jackson; Rashmika likely feels that same anxiety now. To help alleviate that, there is a wonderful team…
They will stand by you. I could play a role like the one in Avvai Shanmugi, but I could never play the role of M.S. Amma. So, you should accept this role and perform it boldly. M.S. Amma was a powerful woman of India—specifically, a powerful woman of South India. I extend my best wishes to this film crew on behalf of Ellis R. Dungan; it was he who asked me to come here and convey these greetings. These are matters close to our hearts.
This venue has nurtured countless musicians and music lovers; it is only fitting that this event takes place here. M.S. Amma’s photograph is found not just here, but in Tirupati and even at the United Nations—there is hardly a place where her image does not exist.
For me, Ellis R. Dungan is a hero; he came here from afar to direct films in Tamil. I must extend that same respect to the producers of this film—Allu Aravind, Rockline Venkatesh, and Benny Vasu. The South India I once dreamed of was exactly like that in the past—with Chennai as a central hub—and that dynamic is re-emerging now. It should not be confined to just one city; it should span Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai. We are all one family; we must never forget that. Today, films are being released in their respective languages and achieving success.
I say this because I was the lead actor in the film Maro Charitra, but there was another hero before me—Nageswara Rao. His film Devadas was a success here. We are all part of a united Dravidian family; let us not confuse matters by bringing politics into this. Music has the power to unite everyone, and M.S. Amma’s voice, in particular, possessed that unifying power. “India takes pride in the creation of his biopic; Tamil Nadu, in particular, takes pride in it. As an Indian, I also feel proud to have attended the launch event of this film,” he said.