When an Indian National Award-winning actor of Dhanush’s stature makes his first film as a director, it is something to look forward to.
PaPaandi, releasing in India on April 14, features Raj Kiran in the lead role. Until now this veteran actor has mostly played emotional characters and worn veshtis (a traditional men’s garment). Giving him a full makeover with jeans and jackets, Dhanush reveals a new Kiran. He plays a tough stunt master, Pazhani Samy Paandi. Dhanush has also made the 68-year-old actor dance and perform stunts.
This is Kiran’s 23rd film in his 27 years of acting, which began under Dhanush’s father, Kasturi Rangan, with the film En Rasavin Manasile in 1991.
“I believe in doing a film that has a message for society,” Kiran said.
“This film talks about relationships in today’s fast moving world influenced by technology. In many homes, senior citizens are considered unimportant and their opinions not respected. This story emphasises how their rich life experiences could be a guidance for the young generation,” he added.
“Dhanush’s narration is different from his father’s,” continued Kiran. “His emotional drama comes with humour and fun without becoming a melodramatic moral lesson.”
Dhanush, who has written the story, plays a young Pazhani Samy Paandi. Madonna Sebastian (of Premam fame) is paired opposite him.
Prasanna, who is playing Kiran’s onscreen son, said that when Dhanush narrated the story, it evoked memories of his father.
“My father and I shared a relationship similar to the two characters of the film,” said Prasanna. “We could not see eye to eye on anything.”
Prasanna was completely blown away by Dhanush’s storytelling and his emphasis on small details while guiding his actors.
Chaya Singh plays Prasanna’s onscreen wife. The supporting cast includes Revathy, Aadukalam Naren, Sendrayan and child actors Raghava and Baby Chaavi.
PaPaandi is produced by Wunderbar Films, Dhanush’s banner, and releases on April 14 in India.
