Success Meet for the Film ‘Baththa’ Starring Vijay Sethupathi!
‘Baththa’ is a film directed by Balaji Tharaneetharan and released on October 1st, featuring a cast that includes Makkal Selvan Vijay Sethupathi, Lijomol Jose, Harikrishnan, Shanthi Balachandran, Arjun Chidambaram, Sai Prithvi Raj, Sahasra, Ajay Ghosh, and Deepa Venkat.
Sai Abhyankar composed the music for the film, while Selvakumar S.K. handled the cinematography and R. Kalaivanan managed the editing. Presented by Atlee, the film was produced by Murad Khetani, Priya Atlee, Alok Jain, and Ajit Andhare on behalf of Star Studio18, A for Apple Studios, and Cine 1 Studios Production.
Beginning as an action movie but unfolding into an engaging narrative that explores delicate human emotions, ‘Baththa’ is currently on a successful run; it has garnered critical acclaim from the media and seen an increase in the number of screens showing the film due to its box-office performance. To celebrate the film’s success, the team behind the movie ‘Baththa’ met with the press for a ‘success meet.’
Speaking at the event, the film’s cinematographer, Selvakumar, said:
“First, I want to thank Atlee anna for giving me this opportunity. I have been learning from every film I work on. In that vein, just as I learned from directors Lokesh Kanagaraj and Raju Murugan, I also learned a great deal from Balaji Tharaneetharan. Beyond filmmaking, I learned from him not to harbor excessive desires and to lead a simple life. He taught me the importance of finishing dinner by 6 PM, going to bed early, and disconnecting from the phone to enjoy a peaceful sleep.
Vijay Sethupathi sir delivered a brilliant performance. The young boy, Sai, was astonishing in his acting, and Lijomol is a truly talented performer. I was moved to tears even while we were filming the song ‘Magale’.” Speaking on the occasion, the film’s production designer, Muthuraj, said:
“Everyone in this film delivered fantastic performances. Sai did an amazing job composing not just the songs but also the background score. The film held many unexpected elements. It was gratifying to see that the film garnered only positive feedback, without any negativity—a rarity in these times when negativity often spreads so easily. I am delighted. Producer Atlee spearheaded this project; I hope he produces many more films like this. We need more quality films of this nature. It was astonishing to see the subtle nuances Vijay Sethupathi brought to his character; he truly embodied the role, especially in that bathroom scene. The young boy, Sai, was brilliant in the final scene where he tearfully delivers his confession—it is deeply moving even without any background music. Lijomol also delivered a performance filled with subtle nuances. Everyone in the cast performed exceptionally well.”
The film’s poster designer, Gopi Prasanna, said:
“I wanted to give the film a retro aesthetic. I loved the film’s geographical setting; it served as my inspiration and shaped the visual style. Vijay Sethupathi’s first-look poster turned out brilliantly. I thank everyone who gave me the opportunity to work on this film.”
Lyricist KK Nagar Gana Jeeva said:
“I thank everyone who gave me the opportunity to write a song for this film. I am at a loss for words beyond that. The emotional scenes in the movie are excellent.” Speaking on the occasion, the film’s co-dialogue writer, Karan Karky, said:
“Standing on this stage is the realization of a dream I’ve held for 16 years—that is how deeply I dream about cinema. I have written eight novels and a collection of short stories so far, and I’ve won 16 awards. Yet, I have found something now that I hadn’t found in all those previous achievements. Everyone is asking me for a treat now. Initially, when the director approached me with this film, I was hesitant. You see, I generally harbor a grievance against Tamil cinema regarding its portrayal of Chennai dialects. There are many layers to these dialects; the way people speak in Chintadripet is different from how they speak in Vyasarpadi, and the dialect in Royapuram is distinct as well.
I was pleasantly surprised when they asked me to trace the roots of these Chennai dialects and incorporate specific words. They even took the time to ask about and understand the meanings of the words I used.
The screenplay itself is so well-crafted that it could serve as a lesson in a screenwriting workshop.”
Actor Harikrishnan said:
“I am delighted to be part of this event; thank you all very much. I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in such a fine film. I also want to thank Vijay Sethupathi anna (brother) for acting alongside me and for ensuring I was given my due space. A strong sense of positivity is building around this film, and the reason for that is a wonderful soul named Atlee.”
Actor Balamurugan said:
“This is my debut film. Before this, I used to work in the media and watch cinema-related events…”
I used to watch [events like this]. Now, I am standing on this stage. I thank the director for giving me this opportunity. I learned a lot from Vijay Sethupathi anna,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, actor Arjun Chidambaram said:
“I thank the people of Tamil Nadu for welcoming those who come here. Patha is an important film for all of us. When the story was narrated, I felt confident; while acting, that confidence turned into amazement. Throughout the shoot, I consistently followed the director’s instructions. This film stands as an example of how, if one believes in a good story, everything else falls into place. It has arrived as a film that alleviates the longing for quality cinema. I am happy to have been a part of it.”
Actor Vishnu said:
“I have come here from the Malayalam film industry. I am not sure what to say. If asked, I would highlight three things. First, rather than us choosing art, art should choose us. Second, one must work hard and remain silent. Third, we shouldn’t speak; our film should do the talking. These are the three things I have learned. If you liked my performance in this film, please give me opportunities.”
Producer Murad Khetani said:
“I thank Atlee for bringing me on board for this production. I am happy to have been part of such a wonderful crew. My thanks go to the director, Vijay Sethupathi, Muthuraj, and everyone else. This is a very important film for us. We have received nothing but positive reviews for it; perhaps no other film has received such a reception.”
Lead actress Lijo Mol Jose said:
“I was very nervous during the film’s audio launch, but that anxiety has subsided now. I am deeply grateful to the audience for embracing this film and for accepting me in the role of Kannima. I am truly happy.” “First, I would like to thank producer Atlee and the other producers. Everyone involved in this film gave their best, and they all deserve appreciation. I am proud to have acted in this movie. From filming to dubbing, the director patiently guided me and brought out the best performance; I am grateful for his patience. I used to be intimidated just by the sight of Vijay Sethupathi sir, but being near him feels like magic. I feel proud to have witnessed and been part of that magic. I was amazed by the space and freedom he gives to fellow artists. Young Sai is very talented, and Sahasra also performed wonderfully. The song ‘Chella Magale,’ composed by Sai Abhyankar, was fantastic. I hope this film reaches everyone and that people watch it again and again. Those who have seen it should tell others about it. Please help make this film an even bigger success,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, young Sahasra said:
“Thank you for casting me in the role of Thenmozhi. I am grateful to the audience for making this film a huge success. Thank you to all the producers, including Atlee sir. I also thank the director for patiently guiding me through my performance and Vijay Sethupathi sir. This is a wonderful film that evokes a beautiful feeling.”
Sai Prithvi Raj, who played the role of Sabari, said:
“This is my first film and my first journey. I feel a mix of fear and happiness—much like I did during the shoot, where I felt both nervous and excited. However, everyone took great care of me. Even though I was running around the set, everyone looked after me safely and attentively throughout those 60 days. The director helped me deliver a beautiful performance.” “I was scared while acting alongside Sethu Sir. Although I was happy during the shoot, I couldn’t let that happiness show on my face because I was constantly apprehensive. He interacted with me like a friend and was very cheerful. There were times he scolded me, but he always insisted that I should study well,” she said.
Speaking on the occasion, music composer Sai Abhyankar said:
“I experienced a mix of emotions when the opportunity to compose music for this film came up. I believe two or three actors in this movie will win National Awards; even the actors playing drivers performed brilliantly—their acting was so natural that it was hard to single out just one standout performer. Initially, the director didn’t have faith in me; there were plans to hire someone else. I gradually earned his trust through each song I composed, and only then did he agree to let me handle the background score as well. Sethu Anna and Lijo Akka both delivered fantastic performances. Atlee Anna believed in me right from the time the story was narrated—even when I didn’t believe in myself, he did. He even told me I would be composing for his second film too, and I think that will turn out well.”
Director Balaji Tharaneetharan said:
“I want to thank the three producers who gave me this opportunity. The key difference between Atlee and me is his positive mindset—something I lack but he possesses in abundance. Initially…”
“I was anxious that things might change. He has acted very well. This film has brought him great fame. He must not lose his way; I would tell him to focus on his studies. Lijomol’s contribution was excellent. Thank you. My brothers—Hari, Jothi, Vishnu, and Bala—thank you as well; you have done a wonderful job. I had some doubts about Sai Abhyankar initially, but he understood the film and worked accordingly. Everyone involved understood the story and worked towards the same goal. Thank you all.”
Speaking in conclusion, producer Atlee said:
“No matter what I do or say, people find fault. They call me arrogant. I believe in fairness and in the well-being of those around me. If that honesty and confidence are perceived as arrogance, then so be it.
When milk spoils, it turns into curd, becoming more valuable. When curd spoils, it turns into ghee, becoming even more valuable. Similarly, in life, we move to the next stage through certain ‘bad’ experiences. If God leads us off the beaten path, there is a reason for it—it means He is guiding us to the next level. This film represents that kind of experience.
I remain full of hope. If that is seen as arrogance, then let it be.
When I was young, if I had said I would direct a film with Vijay Sir, no one would have believed it; they would have laughed. If I had said I would direct Shah Rukh Khan, no one would have believed it; they would have laughed. That is how every stage of my journey has been. Today, I have directed a film all the way in Bollywood.
I have a dark complexion and come from the Madurai region; to some, this might seem like a subject for ridicule. But I pay no heed to that and simply keep moving forward on my own path.” As for this film, I am grateful to producer Murad Khetani, who came on board based on just a single word from me.
There are some people one simply cannot forget, and Vijay Sethupathi anna is one of them. More than being a fine actor, he is, first and foremost, a wonderful human being. I have learned a great deal from him. Even icons like Rajini Sir and Shah Rukh Khan speak highly of him.
Today, Vijay Sethupathi anna is known across India. I intend to take him to even greater heights. It is my wish to revive and make the film Marudhanayagam with both Kamal Sir and Vijay Sethupathi anna, should the opportunity arise.
Sai Abhyankar is a child of God. People may have various opinions about him, but when we visited London, he amazed everyone—earning their applause—by having around 200 musicians, who had worked on Hollywood films, perform his musical compositions. I state here that he will grow to become a proud symbol of Tamil Nadu. Although this film is already on a successful path, I am reaching out to the people to ensure it achieves even greater success. That is no small feat; reaching out to the public is a noble endeavor.”
