Cinematographer-turned-director and producer PG Muthiah came up with the story of his debut film — Madura Veeran — even before the jallikattu protests gained momentum early this year.
Speaking to The Times of India, he also added that Hip Hop Thamizha’s video on jallikattu — ‘Takkaru Takkaru’ — rekindled his faith in his own script.
“I was ready with the script early last year. I was sceptical as to how it will work as a film, as many weren’t aware about it. I then happened to see Hip Hop Adhi’s video about the same, which got good response. Later, the protests widened the knowledge about jallikattu and the issues related to it. This one is out-and-out about jallikattu and there wouldn’t be any deviations, even with regards to songs,” he told The Times of India.
Muthiah said that the script talks about the game and the politics associated with it. Several scenes were inspired from true incidents, he added.
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The cast includes Shanmugha Pandian, son of actor-turned-politician Vijaykanth in the lead. “I wanted someone from Madurai — a tall, young guy, who naturally has a Madurai slang. Shanmuga Pandian is from Madurai and he speaks the Madurai slang quite effortlessly. I felt he was apt for the role,” said the filmmaker about his actor.
The film also has Samuthirakani playing the lead actor’s father. With only the talkie portions and a few fight sequences and song shoots remaining, the film’s team will soon move towards post-production work.