Popular comedy actor A.V. Ramachandran (known as ‘Kili’ Ramachandran) makes his directorial debut with the film Vaazhkaiye Porattam!
“Actors cannot emerge without directors” – Director Perarasu speaks at the Vaazhkaiye Porattam launch ceremony.
“A felicitation ceremony for Chief Minister Vijay is coming soon!” – Director Perarasu announces at the Vaazhkaiye Porattam launch ceremony.
“Vaazhkaiye Porattam will create a massive impact, much like the film Mandela” – Director Subramaniam Siva praises the project.
“Vaazhkaiye Porattam is a political film for the people!” – Director A.V. Ramachandran.
A.V. Ramachandran—popularly known as ‘Kili’ Ramachandran for his comedic roles in numerous films—has stepped into the role of a director. The film, for which he has written the story, screenplay, and dialogues, is titled Vaazhkaiye Porattam (Life is a Struggle). Produced by S.K.A. Ashok Kumar under the banner of AVR International Films, the movie features the producer himself as the lead actor. Senthil, Pava Lakshmanan, Muthukaalai, Subbaraj, and Rebecca play key roles, while directors Perarasu and Subramaniam Siva also appear in pivotal characters.
This political satire features music by Velan Sahadevan G and cinematography by Veda Selvam. Poet Ezhilarasan is penning the lyrics, and Ravi Dev is choreographing the dance sequences. Vijay Karthik serves as the PRO.
The film’s launch ceremony took place this morning (July 14) with a traditional pooja at Prasad Labs in Chennai. Directors Perarasu and Subramaniam Siva, along with PRO Union Secretary Vijayamurali, attended as special guests and extended their best wishes to the film crew. Speaking to congratulate the film crew, Director Perarasu said, “Kili Ramachandran became famous as an actor by playing comedic roles in numerous films. Now, he is making his debut as a director, and I offer him my best wishes. I was pleasantly surprised when he narrated the story of this film to me; it is an excellent story and a political film that the public needs. Just as people currently support family-oriented movies, they should also extend their support to political films. More political films need to be made, and no government should hinder them; only then can freedom of speech and freedom of expression truly exist in the country. Many political films were released during MGR’s tenure as Chief Minister. Similarly, now that Vijay is the Chief Minister, more political films should be produced, and the messages conveyed through them must be respected.
We are planning to organize a felicitation ceremony for Chief Minister Vijay on behalf of the Directors’ Association. While many other associations might be planning similar events, the Directors’ Association holds the primary right to do so. The reason is that actors cannot emerge without directors; it is the directors who create actors. Whether it was MGR or Rajini, they rose to become superstars through the stories crafted by directors. It is these very individuals who have ascended to become Chief Ministers ruling the nation. Therefore, the Directors’ Association has the first right to host a felicitation ceremony for Chief Minister Vijay. We are ready to organize the event, though we do not yet know if the Chief Minister desires it. A decision regarding the ceremony will be made based on the response we receive from his side.” Director Subramaniya Siva said, “I first met Ramachandran during the making of the film Aintham Thalaimurai Siddha Vaidya Sigamani. Not every artist finds the right timing for success; some wait for opportunities, while others create their own. Ramachandran belongs to the latter category, having risen to become a director today. These artists felt secure when Vivek Sir was around; his passing was a huge loss for them, so it is heartening to see Ramachandran stepping into a role where he can help others. I have heard that he used to assist many people alongside Vijayakanth Sir and Mayilsamy Sir—sometimes even borrowing money to help those in need. A man with such a nature has now become a director and is creating opportunities for others.
I was amazed when Ramachandran narrated the story of this film. It was surprising to find such a socially conscious narrative coming from someone known primarily as a comedy actor. Just as Yogi Babu’s Mandela made a significant impact, Vaazhkkaiye Porattam will do the same. It is a political satire that embraces all sections of society while championing equality and humanity. The success of this film will pave the way for ‘small’ films to emerge as ‘big’ ones.”
Speaking about the film, Director A.V. Ramachandran said, “I have been involved in politics since childhood. My father was a Congress party member; beyond accompanying him, I have also associated with various political leaders as an actor and campaigned for different parties during elections. Politics is an integral part of my life. This story had been on my mind for a long time. Even though political leaders and parties implement numerous welfare schemes for the public, people still expect much more…”
what they expect and what they actually do—as well as their role in politics—is portrayed here through satire. This is a political film for the people. It focuses on the public rather than criticizing specific political leaders or parties.
“As long as Vivek sir was with us, our lives were free of hardship. However, since his passing, many comedy actors have been struggling; I want to provide them with opportunities through my film, which is why I have cast so many of them in it. Directors Perarasu and Subramaniam Siva also play significant roles. This is a film for the people, and I am confident it will receive a great reception from the audience,” he said.
Actor Muthukaalai said, “I offer my best wishes to Ramachandran, who is making his debut as a director after a career as a comedy actor. He has provided opportunities to many artists like me. I hope this film succeeds and that he goes on to direct many more.”
Producer and lead actor S.K.A. Ashok Kumar said, “I am happy to be making my debut as a lead actor with the film Vaazhkkaiye Porattam (Life Itself is a Struggle). This is a political film for the people. We believe this movie, which blends humor with political satire, will be well-received by the audience.”
Music composer Velan Sahadevan said, “There are five songs in the film, each in a different style designed to appeal to the audience. Although it is a political satire, it is packed with commercial elements. Thank you.”
Lyricist Ezhilarasan said, “I knocked on many doors seeking opportunities to write songs, but none opened. Today, I am delighted to have the chance to write five songs for a single film, thanks to my friend A.V. Ramachandran. The songs will appeal to everyone. Thank you.” …he said.
Cinematographer Vedha Selvam said, “Ramachandran and I are from the same hometown and have been friends since childhood. He has worked tirelessly—day and night—on this film. His hard work will not go to waste; this film is sure to be a massive success.”
Choreographer Ravi Dev said, “I have known my friend Ramachandran for many years. Having made audiences laugh as an actor, he will now make them think as a director; this film is truly one made for the people. Thank you.”
Filming for this movie—which satirically depicts various issues, including how people misuse government schemes like the ‘100-Day Employment Scheme’ and become lazy—is set to begin next week.
