‘Idhu Namma Kudumbam’ – Music and Trailer Launch Event
“In the past, those who were well-educated entered politics; today, those from the acting profession are entering politics,” remarked Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan at the ‘Idhu Namma Kudumbam’ event.
“Today, it is the mobile phone that is corrupting women!” declared director Perarasu, speaking with great intensity at the ‘Idhu Namma Kudumbam’ music launch.
“People in the film industry stand a step above everyone else,” stated director R.V. Udayakumar at the ‘Idhu Namma Kudumbam’ event.
Produced by CCC Film International—a collaborative effort by Chaitanya Sankaran, Maragatha Subha Sankaran, Dr. Archana Sankaran, and Arthika Sankaran—the film ‘Idhu Namma Kudumbam’ is written and directed by Chaitanya Sankaran, who also penned the story, screenplay, and dialogues. The film features Anand Babu as the lead actor, with Sajitha as the female lead. The cast also includes Mahanadhi Shankar, Deepak Nambiar, Sonia Das, Anrisha, Theni Amutha, Aishwarya, Muthukaalai, Crane Manohar, Subburaj, Surya, Bharathi Shankar, Karthik, and Abdullah Raja in significant roles.
The film’s music is composed by K. Balachandran, with cinematography by S.R.P. Senthil. Aravind handled the film editing, while Saravanan Vadivel served as the associate director. The choreography was designed by Mari Manoj, and the action sequences were choreographed by Justin Ravi. N. Ramasamy Nanjil served as the production executive, and Vijay Karthik is the public relations officer (PRO) for the film.
The music and trailer launch for the film took place on the evening of October 15th at Prasad Labs, Chennai. Former Governor Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan participated as the chief guest and released the music album. Additionally, several others, including directors R. V. Udayakumar, Perarasu, and Subramaniam Siva, attended as special invitees. Speaking at the event, Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan said, “Usually, when I am invited to an event, the date is set at least fifteen days in advance. However, Chaitanya Sankaran asked me to attend with only 48 hours’ notice; I came because this feels like family. It is a joyful occasion. On one side, we have R.V. Udayakumar, and on the other, Perarasu—both are excellent directors. I must say, it is my wish that things ‘rise’ (udayam) on one side and become a ‘grand empire’ (perarasu) on the other! I am right in the middle, and since I wanted to be part of this, I made sure to attend. My only real connection to cinema is that I live in Saligramam; I don’t watch many films. Coming from a political family, I focused primarily on my studies, so I never developed a keen interest in cinema. Back then, it was the educated who became politicians; today, it is those from the acting world who are transitioning into politics.
During my medical college days, our own lives were such intense stories that we had no time to look at other narratives. There’s a story we used to hear back then: a director once approached a doctor and asked him to write a script for his film. When the doctor asked why he was being asked to write a story, the director replied, ‘I’ve started the story, but I can’t seem to finish it. Since you spend your time bringing closure to so many people’s life stories, perhaps you could finish mine too!’ Well, I didn’t come here for that! Regarding the conflict in the story—the distinction between ‘good’ (pure) liquor and ‘bad’ (adulterated/harmful) liquor—I believe that is precisely why lives end up being ruined. As a doctor, I know all too well how ‘bad’ liquor attacks the liver—it strikes with the same intensity that the ruling and opposition parties use when attacking each other! That said, the song itself was quite good. Sankaran is the producer.” He has worked in film direction and has also written song lyrics.
Someone once remarked to me that film songs from the past were much better, unlike those today. It has reached a point where songs are no longer crafted with artistic depth—they are merely produced for the sake of making money. This is a good film; it portrays a family setting and includes meaningful, instructive moments. The film depicts deeply distressing situations and shows how one can overcome them—congratulations to the team! My best wishes to director Sankaran; I hope he goes on to make many more films. The film industry is a field with immense potential for growth, and it demands an extraordinary amount of hard work. Often, we watch a movie and casually dismiss it by saying, “It’s not good.” Yet, I am well aware of the immense effort and labor that goes into creating such a film. Having worked in film editing myself, I truly understand the scale of the hard work required to make a movie.
In my view, regardless of one’s profession, it is essential to prioritize one’s physical health. When someone in the film industry passes away suddenly, it makes me wonder if they perhaps neglected their well-being. Therefore, no matter what field you are in, as you climb the ladder of success, it is crucial to ensure that your health remains in good condition. I am a great admirer of Na. Muthukumar’s lyrics. When he passed away, I visited his home—even though I had no personal connection to him, I still went there…
The reason for this is his songs. Therefore, we must take care of our own. My father and I belonged to different political parties; we wouldn’t even speak to each other. Yet, I was the one who looked after him during his final days—a fact I take pride in. An elderly man once walked into a mobile phone shop, claiming his phone was broken. The shopkeeper examined it and said, “Your phone is perfectly fine.” The old man then asked, “Then why haven’t I received any calls from my son or daughter?” Even when his own children were the ones failing him, he chose to believe the problem lay with the phone—that is the essence of a family. No matter how famous one becomes, one must always look after their family, including their parents. Regardless of the challenges that arise, we must stand by our family. That is why, despite the many issues I am facing, I chose to attend this event—because the title is “Idhu Namma Kudumbam” (This Is Our Family).
A family is essential—both to the nation and to the individual. If we nurture our families well, most problems will resolve themselves. Let us live as good people, with empathy and consideration for one another. Offer a few kind words to those who are struggling. For the title “Idhu Namma Kudumbam” to truly hold meaning, this family must thrive and move forward. I wish for “Idhu Namma Kudumbam” to flourish as a wonderful family and achieve great success. I look forward to being part of the 100th-day celebration of this film. With that, I take my leave. …he said.
G. Radhakrishnan, the Tamil Nadu State President of the Unorganized Workers’ Union, spoke at the event: “It is a delight to have Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan here as the chief guest for the trailer and song launch of Idhu Namma Kudumbam (This Is Our Family). I have enjoyed many of Anand Babu’s films; he could have easily been a doctor, but he chose to become an actor instead. His presence as the lead in Idhu Namma Kudumbam adds a special touch to the film—it makes one genuinely interested in watching it.
Cinema carries a vast history, encompassing the immense hard work of directors, actors, actresses, music composers, and the various technicians and workers behind the scenes. The investment and effort poured into filmmaking are substantial. For these endeavors to be profitable, films must have commercial appeal. Today, cinema reflects societal issues, just as society itself finds a reflection in cinema. In my youth, I even took a beating from my father because of my obsession with movies—I have truly ‘bled’ for cinema! To excel in any field, one needs a strong support system; in the director’s case, his wife provides that vital support. I am certain that everyone involved in this project will achieve great success, and I wish for this film to become a massive hit,” he said.
The film’s director and producer, Chaitanya Sankaran, remarked, “The very name Idhu Namma Kudumbam brings joy. As Madam mentioned, cinema itself is like a family to us. I would like to express my gratitude to all the artists who worked on this film. I am also deeply thankful to directors Perarasu, R.V. Udayakumar, and Subramaniam Siva for gracing the event and bestowing their blessings upon me.” “For this film to be a success, I need the cooperation and support of you all. I am confident that the media will help promote this film effectively. I request you all to watch it on the big screen and share your well-wishes,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, R.V. Udayakumar remarked, “It is a pleasure to be gathered here like a family. Director Chaitanya Sankaran is a member of the Tamil Nadu Directors’ Association. I’ve just realized what a significant figure he is—he seems to have quite a strong political background! I was invited only yesterday, and I made sure to attend. The fact that so many people showed up on such short notice speaks volumes about his stature. I was actually meant to become a doctor. I needed to pay 4,500 rupees, but since my father didn’t have the money, I ended up becoming a director instead. Had I paid that amount, I might have been a doctor in some remote corner of Coimbatore. The person who scored just below me went on to build a hospital in Erode—yet, he isn’t even known across four streets there, whereas I am known to the entire world. That is the power of the arts!
Furthermore, while Tamilisai-madam mentioned that actors are entering politics, the reality is that it is the educated who are increasingly stepping into the political arena. The people of Tamil Nadu are truly enlightened; they know exactly whom to elevate and when. That is precisely why they have chosen Vijay—our own man from the film industry—to be their Chief Minister. That is the strength of our creative fraternity. Opportunities don’t just appear by chance; they are destined by the Divine at the very moment of our creation. Even though the opportunity to become a doctor came my way, it was clearly not meant to be…”
It was destined—or rather, ‘written’—that a young man with a degree in Visual Communication (Viscom) would one day become the Chief Minister; that is what fate has decreed for Vijay. For the past 50 years, cinema has effectively governed Tamil Nadu. Cinema is no ordinary medium; there is nothing it hasn’t touched upon. Figures like MGR and Sivaji Ganesan have covered every conceivable subject—from the bonds between siblings and family dynamics to how to raise children and the journey toward becoming a better human being.
Cinema has contributed a great deal of good. Some argue that people from the film industry shouldn’t enter politics—but I ask, why not? In many ways, those in cinema are a step ahead of others. Anna, who wrote stories for films, became Chief Minister. Karunanidhi, who penned the dialogues for the film Velaikkari, also became Chief Minister. MGR and Jayalalithaa, who starred in these films, went on to become Chief Ministers as well. And now, Vijay—who grew up watching these very films—has also become Chief Minister. The truth is, the public places their trust in people from the film industry. While some might hesitate to rent a home to someone from the industry or offer their daughter in marriage to them, the reality is that those who do marry into the film fraternity lead perfectly fine lives. The film industry is a close-knit circle; because everyone knows that any lack of moral conduct would be noticed by others, people tend to live with a sense of discipline. Therefore, I would like to place on record that people in the film industry are, in fact, disciplined individuals.
I believe Idhu Namma Kudumbam will be an excellent film. The songs are wonderful. I have seen Anand Babu dance before, and having watched his performance in this movie, I can say he has done a fantastic job. His father, Nagesh, was an actor capable of portraying every human emotion with ease; his son, Anand Babu, truly deserves to be at the very pinnacle of his craft. In fact, the dance moves that Prabhu Deva later became famous for were the very same ones that Anand Babu had already mastered. He has performed exceptionally well in this film, and I offer him my best wishes. “Sajitha, who plays his wife, has also performed very well. Mahanadhi Shankar has delivered an excellent performance in a different kind of role. I wish for this film to be a massive success,” he said.
The film’s lead actor, Anand Babu, spoke, saying, “Greetings to everyone. I would like to thank the esteemed Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan, Radhakrishnan, and directors R.V. Udayakumar, Perarasu, and Subramaniam Siva for gracing this significant event. This is a unique film; it contains many scenes that will help the audience truly understand the meaning of ‘family.’ I, too, could have become a doctor—it was simply destiny that I didn’t. I was supposed to study medicine in Bengaluru, but I had a strong desire to pursue dance. That was when I received an acting opportunity, and the film’s great success led me to become an actor. I also have a small request for the members of the press. My father taught me one important lesson: he was never easily satisfied with anything. In that same spirit, I view every film as a step forward—a milestone. This film, too, is a milestone for me. I kindly request the press to support this film and help me successfully cross this milestone.”
The film’s lead actress, Sajitha, said, “Greetings to everyone present here. Thank you for coming and supporting my first film as a lead actress. I am grateful to Chaitanya Shankar sir for giving me this opportunity. Shortly after I finished my work on this film, a major challenge—cancer—entered my life. I never imagined I would be standing here today. I have now overcome cancer, and I truly didn’t expect to be here speaking like this. I’m not even sure what to say; I have simply shared what happened in my life.” “In the film Idhu Namma Kudumbam, we have depicted the hardships that people face. I have shared the struggles I personally went through, while many others choose to keep theirs to themselves. Therefore, I seek your support for this film. Thank you,” she said.
Director Perarasu remarked, “Even though the lead actress, Sajitha, spoke for only a short while, she truly touched our hearts. Having overcome cancer, her success is certain. Much like Manisha Koirala, who also battled cancer and emerged victorious to continue her successful journey, you too will continue your own path to success. Your words inspire hope. I would also like to thank Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan for gracing this event with her presence and offering her well-wishes. She mentioned that while in the past, educated individuals entered politics, now actors are doing so; however, it is worth noting that many currently in politics have also begun to ‘act’ themselves!
I have worked as an assistant director on a film featuring Nagesh, and later on a project starring his son, Anand Babu. Now, I have acted in a film where Anand Babu’s son plays the lead. It is a matter of great pride for me to have worked with three generations of actors. Today, the choice of a film’s title can determine half its success. Idhu Namma Kudumbam (This Is Our Family) is a beautiful title—it alone is reason enough to watch the film. The songs are excellent; listening to them brought Kannadasan to mind—the lyrics are truly that remarkable. The songs perfectly complement a story centered on a family.
As for families today…”
Mobile phones are everywhere. Every family naturally experiences a mix of joy, sadness, and worry; however, today, it feels as though the mobile phone has become the center of the family—or rather, it is what drives families apart. With each person glued to their own device, individuals have begun to live in isolation. Mobile phones are, in fact, eroding the family unit. If this nation is to prosper—and if our culture, traditions, and family structures are to remain intact—I have one earnest request for both the central and state governments: put an end to the era of “unlimited talk time.” We should return to the days of using one-rupee coins to make calls. Furthermore, mobile phones are a corrupting influence on women today. If we want a family—a good family—to thrive, the central government must take steps to curb unlimited talk time.
Through this film, director Chaitanya Shankar aims to convey a meaningful message. Directors bear a responsibility; it is their duty to highlight the wrongs occurring in society and bring them to the audience’s attention. Illicit relationships are inherently wrong, and films should not attempt to justify them. Similarly, while same-sex relationships may exist, they should not be normalized or validated on screen. Cinema should champion what is good, not justify what is harmful. Although the world is full of wrongdoing and injustice, these things should not be depicted in films, as they are detrimental to society. Idhu Namma Kudumbam (“This Is Our Family”) is a film that focuses on wholesome relationships and positive values—a fact evident even just by listening to its songs. A director’s role is to illustrate how an elder brother should conduct himself, how a father should raise his children, and to define the true essence of relationships and culture. I commend director Chaitanya Shankar for choosing the title Idhu Namma Kudumbam and for presenting such a valuable message.
It is truly heartening to see small-scale films that carry meaningful messages achieving success over the past year. “Films like Mandadi, Modha Rathiri, and Viswanath & Sons have all done well. The public supported them because they were good films—people always celebrate quality cinema. In that same vein, the audience will support Idhu Namma Kudumbam (This Is Our Family), and it will be a great success,” he said.
Actor Mahanadi Shankar remarked, “Thank you to everyone who has extended their well-wishes for Idhu Namma Kudumbam. Having been typecast as a villain for so long, it’s a bit difficult for some to accept me in a ‘good guy’ role—that’s just how the film industry works; once you play a certain type of character, you keep getting offered similar roles. It was director Chaitanya Sankaran who gave me this opportunity. Working on this film and seeing Anand Babu sir—he truly reminded me of Michael Jackson! You won’t find a better person than director Chaitanya Sankaran; he has put in immense hard work and taken significant risks for this project.
In this film, I play a ‘good’ character. It’s been 15 years since I transitioned into playing positive roles—a transformation that itself took 12 years! A family thrives only when its head is upright. This film conveys many meaningful messages, and my character contributes to one of them. It’s a film with a valuable theme, and I truly hope people watch it. Thank you.”
Director Subramaniam Siva stated, “After the likes of K.S. Gopalakrishnan, Visu, and Sekhar, it is heartening to see director Chaitanya Sankaran emerge to tell stories about family bonds. The concept of a ‘family unit’ only emerged about 20,000 years ago—it came into existence alongside the development of land-based settlements. In the era of hunter-gatherers, such family structures did not exist. Today, however, this family structure is beginning to disintegrate—and the reason for this is education. Education can be quite dangerous.” “When people get an education, they start earning, and once they earn, they often desire to live independently—this is precisely why the family structure begins to crumble. We must overcome this through wisdom; we must use our intellect to preserve the family unit.
The Mahabharata teaches the importance of unity among kin, illustrating how a family can fall apart if such unity is lost. Similarly, the Ramayana emphasizes the need for harmony among brothers. I believe Chaitanya Sankaran has conveyed the message that we must strive to preserve the family structure in this film. Anand Babu sir is an exceptional actor; his unique presence remains unmatched, and I hope to see him in many more films. The music director has done an excellent job—he is clearly a man of great experience, and all the songs are wonderful. I wish the film tremendous success,” he said.
Music director K. Balachandran remarked, “I would like to thank Chaitanya Sankaran for giving me this opportunity. Music is an ocean, and I have only just begun to swim in it—a single lifetime is not enough to explore it fully. Please support the film so that it may succeed. Thank you.”
Actress Sonia Das said, “I have acted in many films, and this project was actually one of my earlier works. I am grateful to Sankaran sir for this opportunity. I played the role of Anand Babu sir’s daughter, and I learned a great deal from him. I thank Sankaran sir for creating that opportunity for me. This story reflects the essence of our own families—it is a story that resonates with every family. Thank you.”
Actor Muthukaalai said, “I thank the director and producer, Chaitanya Sankaran, for giving me an opportunity in the film Idhu Namma Kudumbam. Back when even finding five rupees in Madras was a huge struggle, he invited me over and handed me an advance payment. My current personal situation resonates with the theme of this film. I consider the legendary Nagesh aiyya (sir) my role model, so it is a great joy for me to have acted in a film made by his son. I request your support to make this film a success.”
Distributor Jenish remarked, “True to its title, Idhu Namma Kudumbam (This Is Our Family) is a film best watched together with one’s own family. It gives one plenty to think about. The director has chosen an excellent cast; every scene in the movie feels relatable. The actors haven’t just acted—they have truly lived their roles. It is a film that must be watched in its entirety. It offers valuable guidance on how one should—and should not—live life. We are now taking this film to the next stage of its release. It is undoubtedly a film for the people. Thank you.”
Actress Aishwarya stated, “I thank director Sankaran sir for giving me a song in this film. I also thank Master Mari Manoj sir and Siddique sir. It was a pleasure to act alongside Anand Babu sir and to perform a dance number. Idhu Namma Kudumbam is not just a story; it is a chronicle of life itself. I urge everyone to watch it in theaters and show your support.”
