Finally the uncertainty over the release of Tamil film Kaththi is over.
On Monday night following a prolonged closed-door meeting in Chennai between the producers of the film and Tamil groups, the deadlock came to an end after the production house agreed to remove its name and logo from all publicity material.
Lyca, the production house alleged to have business links with Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa, earned the wrath of Tamil groups. A multiplex in the city was targeted with stones by unknown assailants.
An official statement declared the release of Kaththi worldwide — UAE included — on October 22.
Meanwhile, Tamil cinema’s other big Diwali release, Poojai, will not be released in the UAE, as it has not yet been screened for censors, distribution sources tell tabloid!.
Kaththi features the winning combination of Vijay and director A.R. Murugadoss. The duo’s last film was the box office hit, Thupakki, in 2012. Paired opposite Vijay is Samantha, while Bollywood actor Neil Nitin Mukesh plays a villian.
“This was a dream come true,” Mukesh told the audience at the audio release function ceremony held last month.
“There is no actor in the industry who does not want to work with Murugadoss. I had hoped to work in Gajini. For an actor, language should not be a barrier.”
Going by the trailers, which were released only on October 19, Vijay plays a hero.
Anirudh has scored music. Cinematography is by George C.Williams.
Vijay, better known as Ilayathalapathi, issued a statement thanking the government, police force and the Producers’ Council for taking the initiative to solve the issue amicably.
Angered by the turn of events, several celebrities from the Tamil film industry took to Twitter.
Extending support for Kaththi, Radikaa Sarath Kumar tweeted: “What does this vandalism prove, these people want publicity. Kaththi film will release. Everyone’s support is always there.”
Actor director Prakash Raj tweeted: “What is happening to Vijay and Murugadoss’ Kaththi is unfortunate. Whatever the reason. Please don’t mix politics to cinema. Not fair at all.”