Grand Pre-release Event Held for the Film “Lenin Pandian”!
“Lenin Pandian” is a film presented by T.G. Thyagarajan, produced by Senthil Thyagarajan and Arjun Thyagarajan on behalf of Sathya Jyothi Films, and directed by debutant filmmaker D.D. Balachandran. Starring Darshan Ganesan, Gangai Amaran, Roja, and Sritha Rao, the film is a compelling work that addresses the local way of life and the rights of ordinary people, centering on the issue of illegal sand mining.
With the film set for a worldwide theatrical release on September 25, a grand pre-release event was held yesterday. Film celebrities, the cast and crew, and technical team members attended the event to offer their best wishes. The team shared various interesting details regarding the film’s storyline, production, and the contributions of the actors.
Speaking at the event on behalf of the Distributors’ Association, Arulpathi said:
“I extend my best wishes to Mr. Thyagarajan of Sathya Jyothi Films. I believe this film will be another success for him. I also offer my heartfelt wishes to distributor Satish, who spoke on stage today. I wish for ‘Lenin Pandian’ to achieve tremendous success.” Producer Dhananjayan spoke as follows:
“We have been eagerly awaiting the film ‘Lenin Pandian’ for the past few months. The name ‘Sathya Jyothi Films’ naturally carries a unique level of expectation. First, I would like to extend my congratulations to Mr. Thyagarajan; he is set to receive a National Award for the film ‘Captain Miller.’ Winning a National Award for Best Film is no small feat. It is heartening that ‘Lenin Pandian’ is the next venture from this production house, which is known for films that champion social harmony and values. Just as Vikram Prabhu—hailing from the legendary Sivaji Ganesan’s family—earned acclaim for his role as a police officer in the film ‘Sirai,’ Darshan is making his debut as a police officer in this movie. A massive success awaits Darshan. Tamil cinema needs more fine leading men, and I hope Darshan Ganesan emerges as a significant hero.
Ilaiyaraaja sir’s music is a tremendous asset to the film. Balachandran’s direction and the trailer are both excellent. Seeing Gangai Amaran sir act with such energy at his age, one feels he is ageless; he should continue to act in many more films. It is a delight to see Roja ma’am back on screen. I extend my best wishes for ‘Lenin Pandian’—born of this fantastic collaboration—to become a huge success and a blockbuster for Sathya Jyothi Films.” Producer Amma Siva spoke as follows:
“Sathya Jyothi Films is a production house known for consistently producing high-quality films in Tamil cinema. The dedication and hard work of Thiyagu Sir are the primary reasons for this. I was truly amazed by Gangai Amaran Sir’s performance in the film Lenin Pandian. His appearance and lifestyle transformed after filming began—compared to how they were before—and he truly lived the character. Even after the film ended, one is left with the feeling that the character has stayed with us. It is my personal wish that he receives a National Award.
Roja is a family friend. Setting aside her massive star image, she has delivered an excellent performance in this role. Director Balachandran comes across as a brilliant writer; the film features applause-worthy dialogues in every scene. He has conveyed a socially significant message in a highly engaging and beautiful manner. Dharshan Ganesan is a treasure gifted to Tamil cinema by the Sivaji family. His acting is incredibly natural and realistic; he is reminiscent of Sivaji Sir’s early performances. He has a bright future ahead. Furthermore, with a producer and friend like Ramkumar Sir guiding him so well, Dharshan’s journey is sure to be exceptional. On behalf of everyone, I wish Lenin Pandian tremendous success.” Producer Sujatha Vijayakumar spoke as follows:
“I share a very close bond with Thiyagu Sir. I have always believed that if he chooses a film, it is bound to be a good one and a success. I have heard a lot about the film Lenin Pandian. On behalf of the Tamil Film Producers Council, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Thiyagu Sir on winning the National Award. Selvi Ma’am is also very close to me; her contribution has been pivotal to Thiyagu Sir’s success. I extend my best wishes to the production team—including Selvi Ma’am, Arjun, and Senthil—as well as to all the actors and technicians who worked on this film.”
Joe Thidar Chelli spoke as follows:
“Astrologers speak of auspicious and inauspicious times, but for me, Thyagarajan Sir—who has been like an elder brother to me for the past 40 years—is everything. It was the opportunity he provided that led to this film. Once my brother gives the word, I look no further. I stand here today as an actor because I followed Director Bala Sir’s instructions and endured his scolding. I offer my thanks to Bala Sir for that.”
Actress Archana spoke as follows:
“I consistently put my best effort into my work, and it brings me joy that fitting opportunities come my way as a result. Getting the chance to work with a long-established and renowned production house like Sathya Jyothi Films is no small matter. I express my heartfelt gratitude to Director Bala Sir for this opportunity. I believe everyone will love this film. I know that the entire cast—including Dharshan Ganesan, Gangai Amaran, and Roja—has delivered excellent performances. We, too, are eagerly waiting to watch the full movie. Thank you.”
Director P. Vasu spoke as follows:
“Gangai Amaran is always a cheerful person. However, it was a huge surprise for me to see him in such an angry and intense role in this film’s trailer. Congratulations to Thyagarajan Sir and Director Balachandran for casting him in such a character. Amaran is a wonderful human being who created opportunities for us; he once drove us in his car and recommended us to others, saying, ‘These two will go far; make a film with them and launch them as directors.’ I still cherish memories of sitting with Ilaiyaraaja Sir during music composition sessions—instantly writing lyrics for the tunes he created and crafting wonderful songs like ‘Anandha Ragam’ and ‘Kodai Kaala Kaatre.’
Amaran, Thyagarajan Sir, and I have been family friends for many years. The reason our friendship has endured for so long is simply sincerity. If one is genuine, nothing else is needed; the friendship just keeps going. In those days, the film industry felt like one big family. Even today, when we visit each other’s homes, we interact just like family members. It brings me joy to see Amaran making his debut as an actor, emerging from such a wonderful friendship. I believe this film will bring him great acclaim and success.” Best wishes to everyone.
Actor Ilavarasu spoke as follows:
“Upon hearing the title ‘Lenin Pandian,’ those born in Madurai before 1990 are immediately reminded of a bicycle, a red flag, and the Theekkathir newspaper. There is a connection between this film’s title and the people who took the Communist movement across Tamil Nadu—figures like Ilaiyaraaja Sir, Gangai Amaran Anna, and Bhaskar Sir. I must also take this moment to express my gratitude to those who paved the way for me to travel from Madurai and enter the film industry.
The songs of Gangai Amaran Anna and the music of Ilaiyaraaja Sir had a profound impact on our generation.” The experiences of working with them during the time I first came to Chennai and started working in cinema are unforgettable. At one point, I acted in a film where Gangai Amaran was the lead actor and his son was the director. I have worked as both a cinematographer and an actor on films featuring music by Ilaiyaraaja Sir. The path paved for us by stalwarts like Bharathiraja, Ilaiyaraaja, Gangai Amaran, and Bhaskar is what enabled so many people from Madurai to enter the film industry.
I must also make special mention of Thyagarajan Sir from Sathya Jyothi Films. I worked with him during an event held in Madurai at the time of the Kargil War. That was when I learned from him how to organize and conduct a massive event by approaching and coordinating with everyone, completely devoid of ego. The finesse he brings to production is also remarkable. A hallmark of the Sathya Jyothi banner is its meticulous planning and budgeting for every single expense in a film.
My respects and best wishes go to Balachandran—the director of the film Lenin Pandian—as well as the cinematographer and the entire film crew. It is a matter of pride that Darshan Ganesan, hailing from the family of the legendary Sivaji Sir, is making his debut; I offer him my best wishes. I also extend my best wishes to Ilaiyaraaja Sir and his family. May this film achieve tremendous success, and may we all share in that triumph.
Director Kannan spoke as follows:
I have known Thiyagu Sir since the days when I worked as a co-director; later, I also worked with him on television serials. He does not distinguish between serials and cinema; instead, he prioritizes a good story, quality filmmaking, and discipline. Once Sathya Jyothi Films selects a story, half the battle is already won. The story must captivate him completely, and he insists on finesse and discipline during the filming process. He was so punctual that the first shot had to begin by 7 a.m.
The opportunity to direct the film “Jeyam Kondan” came to me…
Thidar Chelli spoke as follows:
“Astrologers speak of auspicious and inauspicious times, but for me, Thyagarajan Sir—who has been like an elder brother to me for the past 40 years—is everything. It was the opportunity he provided that led to this film. Once my brother gives the word, I look no further. I stand here today as an actor because I followed Director Bala Sir’s instructions and endured his scolding. I offer my thanks to Bala Sir for that.”
Actress Archana spoke as follows:
“I consistently put my best effort into my work, and it brings me joy that fitting opportunities come my way as a result. Getting the chance to work with a long-established and renowned production house like Sathya Jyothi Films is no small matter. I express my heartfelt gratitude to Director Bala Sir for this opportunity. I believe everyone will love this film. I know that the entire cast—including Dharshan Ganesan, Gangai Amaran, and Roja—has delivered excellent performances. We, too, are eagerly waiting to watch the full movie. Thank you.”
Director P. Vasu spoke as follows:
“Gangai Amaran is always a cheerful person. However, it was a huge surprise for me to see him in such an angry and intense role in this film’s trailer. Congratulations to Thyagarajan Sir and Director Balachandran for casting him in such a character. Amaran is a wonderful human being who created opportunities for us; he once drove us in his car and recommended us to others, saying, ‘These two will go far; make a film with them and launch them as directors.’ I still cherish memories of sitting with Ilaiyaraaja Sir during music composition sessions—instantly writing lyrics for the tunes he created and crafting wonderful songs like ‘Anandha Ragam’ and ‘Kodai Kaala Kaatre.’
Amaran, Thyagarajan Sir, and I have been family friends for many years. The reason our friendship has endured for so long is simply sincerity. If one is genuine, nothing else is needed; the friendship just keeps going. In those days, the film industry felt like one big family. Even today, when we visit each other’s homes, we interact just like family members. It brings me joy to see Amaran making his debut as an actor, emerging from such a wonderful friendship. I believe this film will bring him great acclaim and success.” Best wishes to everyone.
Actor Ilavarasu spoke as follows:
“Upon hearing the title ‘Lenin Pandian,’ those born in Madurai before 1990 are immediately reminded of a bicycle, a red flag, and the Theekkathir newspaper. There is a connection between this film’s title and the people who took the Communist movement across Tamil Nadu—figures like Ilaiyaraaja Sir, Gangai Amaran Anna, and Bhaskar Sir. I must also take this moment to express my gratitude to those who paved the way for me to travel from Madurai and enter the film industry.
The songs of Gangai Amaran Anna and the music of Ilaiyaraaja Sir had a profound impact on our generation.” The experiences of working with them during the time I first came to Chennai and started working in cinema are unforgettable. At one point, I acted in a film where Gangai Amaran was the lead actor and his son was the director. I have worked as both a cinematographer and an actor on films featuring music by Ilaiyaraaja Sir. The path paved for us by stalwarts like Bharathiraja, Ilaiyaraaja, Gangai Amaran, and Bhaskar is what enabled so many people from Madurai to enter the film industry.
I must also make special mention of Thyagarajan Sir from Sathya Jyothi Films. I worked with him during an event held in Madurai at the time of the Kargil War. That was when I learned from him how to organize and conduct a massive event by approaching and coordinating with everyone, completely devoid of ego. The finesse he brings to production is also remarkable. A hallmark of the Sathya Jyothi banner is its meticulous planning and budgeting for every single expense in a film.
My respects and best wishes go to Balachandran—the director of the film Lenin Pandian—as well as the cinematographer and the entire film crew. It is a matter of pride that Darshan Ganesan, hailing from the family of the legendary Sivaji Sir, is making his debut; I offer him my best wishes. I also extend my best wishes to Ilaiyaraaja Sir and his family. May this film achieve tremendous success, and may we all share in that triumph.
Director Kannan spoke as follows:
I have known Thiyagu Sir since the days when I worked as a co-director; later, I also worked with him on television serials. He does not distinguish between serials and cinema; instead, he prioritizes a good story, quality filmmaking, and discipline. Once Sathya Jyothi Films selects a story, half the battle is already won. The story must captivate him completely, and he insists on finesse and discipline during the filming process. He was so punctual that the first shot had to begin by 7 a.m.
The opportunity to direct the film “Jeyam Kondan” came to me…
I grew up watching his films, reciting his dialogues, and listening to his songs. When I decided to take acting seriously, I harbored self-doubt about whether I could do it well. I trained hard to overcome that. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my family—including my mother, father, elder brother, and sister-in-law—who stood by me as a tremendous source of support during that time.
I also thank my friends, as well as the cast and crew of this film. They say it brings great happiness to find a life partner who is also a good friend; I have found such a person. I am deeply grateful to Thyagarajan Sir, Selvi Ma’am, Senthil Sir, and Arjun Sir from Sathya Jyothi Films for giving me this opportunity. I will remain forever indebted to the Sathya Jyothi family and to all of you.
This event marks a debut not just for me, but for Director Balachandran Sir as well. I thank him for placing his faith in me and believing I could pull off this role. Gangai Amaran Uncle, it was a pleasure working with you. I also extend my thanks to everyone involved in the film—including Roja Ma’am, the entire cast and crew, and Editor Nagooran Sir.
It brings me great joy to see everyone here today who has shared a loving journey with our family for over fifty years. The affection you show at the mere mention of the name ‘Sivaji’ gives me immense strength. Thank you so much for your love and support.
Producer T.G. Thyagarajan spoke as follows:
Raja Sir is a key reason why I developed a love for music in the film industry. I have often watched him closely and admired his work during re-recording and song-recording sessions. The way he composes music for a scene and brings it to life never fails to amaze me. I also learned the importance of punctuality from both Raja Sir and Sivaji Sir; their professionalism and dedication to their work constitute a school of learning in themselves. “That belongs to a different school of thought; I come from that school,” I often tell the current generation. The things I learned from them have been the greatest lessons of my life.
Sathya Jyothi Films is a company that consistently focuses on selecting unique stories and ensuring their commercial success. We decided to produce Lenin Pandian because it featured a distinctive storyline rather than a conventional one. Continuing our tradition of introducing new directors, we are launching Balachandran with this film.
The moment I first saw Dharshan, I noticed that his facial features and body language were reminiscent of Sivaji Sir. We decided he was the perfect choice for this role. In this film, we discovered an acting talent in Gangai Amaran Sir that had never been seen before. Roja Madam has also performed her role brilliantly. All the actors—including Dharshan Ganesan, Gangai Amaran, and Roja—have done an excellent job.
I am confident that Lenin Pandian, crafted with a unique approach, will offer a fresh experience to the audience. My heartfelt thanks and best wishes go to Raja Sir and the entire film crew.
Gangai Amaran spoke as follows:
With my elder brother’s blessings, I became a director with the film Kozhi Koovuthu. Since then, I have directed about 18 films. I have also worked as a music composer for several movies. Despite having handled various roles in cinema, I am overjoyed that Sathya Jyothi Thyagarajan has now given me the opportunity to act again.
I express my gratitude to Thyagu Sir for this opportunity. I am especially happy to be standing beside him today as an actor. It brings me great joy to encounter such new experiences and opportunities in life. My thanks and best wishes to the film crew. Congratulations to Director Balachander.
Director Venkat Prabhu spoke as follows:
I was truly amazed when I saw my father in this film. Usually, he tends to overact a bit. However, in this movie, his performance is incredibly natural and excellent. The entire credit for this goes to Director Balachander; he beautifully elicited the exact performance he wanted from my father. At times, one forgets it is my father; his acting is such that only the character he portrays stands out before our eyes.
This film is based on a true incident. The director’s intention was to narrate the story as close to reality as possible, without commercializing the event in any way. I did suggest making a few changes for cinematic effect, but he remained very clear about his vision. He has brought exactly what he envisioned to the screen. Consequently, the result is a powerful and deeply moving film. My congratulations go to the entire team—the director, the cinematographer, and the actors.
As for Dharshan,
Acting runs in his blood. One never gets the impression that he is making his debut as the scion of a prominent family; instead, we see him purely as an actor. From his subtle reactions to his performance in every scene, everything is natural and refined. It is highly commendable that he has taken on such a role and performed so brilliantly in his very first film. He has a bright future ahead, and I offer him my heartfelt best wishes.
Roja ma’am appears in a completely different look and character in this film. It is delightful to see a role that truly showcases her acting prowess. A director’s vision determines how an actor is portrayed on screen, and in this regard, Balachandran has presented Roja ma’am in a unique light.
Furthermore, it is heartening to see the return of an era where Raja Sir’s music resonates once again. There was a time when films featuring Ilaiyaraaja Sir’s music were released week after week; it feels as though that golden age has returned. They say life moves in circles, and I am overjoyed that this musical era has come back around. Best wishes to the entire film crew.
Lead actress Sritha Rao spoke as follows:
“I extend my gratitude to everyone—including producers Thiyagarajan Sir, Senthil Sir, Arjun Sir, and Selvi Ma’am—for giving me the opportunity to be part of this film. I wouldn’t be here today if not for Thiyagarajan Sir. During the shoot in Madurai, when I was frightened by the sound of the bulls’ bells, Subbu Sir rushed me to safety; seeing the speed at which he ran, I nicknamed him ‘Usain Bolt.’ That run of his, which began back then, continues to this day.
The dialogues penned by director Balachandran Sir offered me a fresh experience; his writing truly sharpened my memory. Working with Roja Ma’am was a tremendous experience; I have long been an admirer of her work.” I learned a lot while delivering dialogues alongside him. Dharshan was also very supportive. The moment I first saw him, I told him he resembled Sivaji Ganesan Sir.
I first saw Gangai Amaran Sir in the look of his character for the film. Later, when I saw him looking so youthful in Madurai, I remarked, “You look so ‘Gen-Z’.” He jokingly mentioned that he didn’t have a duet song in this film but would definitely ask for one in his next. I hope that wish of his comes true.
My thanks go to the entire technical crew, including cinematographer Edwin Sir and editor Nagooran Sir. Lenin Pandian releases on September 25th. Please come to the theaters and watch the film. Thank you.
Actress Roja spoke as follows:
My debut film was Sembaruthi. Now, I am making a comeback with Lenin Pandian. It is only when people speak of a journey spanning 30 or 35 years that I realize how easily I have traversed such a long path. I thank God for enabling me to navigate both the film industry and politics without the backing of any ‘godfather.’ It brings me great joy that Ilaiyaraaja Sir, who composed the music for my debut film, has also composed the music for my comeback film. I am a huge fan of his.
The main reason I acted in this film is Subbu; we have been friends for a long time. I had stopped acting in films after entering politics, participating only in occasional events. That was when Subbu told me about the story of this film. When Director Balachandran came to our home to narrate the story, the way he told it allowed me to visualize the entire film. I was deeply impressed by how he described everything—from how each character should act and deliver dialogues to what their body language should be. His passion for and vision regarding the film reignited my desire to act again.
I have had the opportunity to act alongside three generations of Sivaji Sir’s family. Having previously worked with Sivaji Sir and Prabhu Sir, I have now acted with Darshan as well. That family has always treated me with the same affection and support one would show a family member. There is another special aspect to working with them: home-cooked food is available throughout the entire shoot, from start to finish. It is also a pleasure to have acted alongside Gangai Amaran Sir; despite his background as a composer and director, he has delivered a very natural performance in this film, much like a seasoned actor.
Sathya Jyothi Films is a production house that has introduced many leading actors, directors, music composers, and technicians. I take great pride in acting in a film produced by them. I would like to express my gratitude to everyone involved, including Thiagarajan Sir, Selvi Ma’am, Senthil Sir, and Arjun Sir.
