Vadivelu is known for many of memorable roles in his illustrious career but his portrayal of twin brothers Pulikesi and Ukraputhan in 2006 historic comedy Imsai Arasan 23am Pulikesi is undoubtedly one of his best performances.
A decade since the release of the film, its sequel finally went on the floors last August at a studio in Chennai. The film marked the reunion of Vadivelu, director Shankar and Chimbu Devan, the trio behind the success of the original. On the day the film went on the floors, three posters were released to mark the occasion.
Just when everything seems to progress smoothly, the major setback came in the form of some allegations from the makers over Vadivelu’s intervention in almost every department of the film. There were also reports that filmmaker Shankar, who happens to be the film’s producer complained about how Vadivelu failed to turn up to shoot on several occasions.
Following these reports, the shoot of the project stalled for a few months and only after the Nadigar Sangam took the matter into its hands did Vadivelu come out and speak on the various allegations against him.
In his letter to Nadigar Sangam, Vadivelu has accused the makers of Imsai Arasan 24am Pulikesi of wasting his dates and clarified them he doesn’t want to work with them. “I gave them my dates until December 2016, but the shoot got delayed for various reasons and went on the floors very late. They changed my costume designer. They belittled me by filing a complaint against me in Tamil Film Producers Council. Due to their delay in the commencement of the project, I couldn’t act in a few films which have cost me heavily.”
He also said that if TFPC bans him from acting, he will move to court to handle this matter legally. In 24am Pulikesi, Parvathy Omanakuttan was signed as Vadivelu’s pair. The film also stars a battalion of supporting cast. Ghibran was roped in to compose the music.
(Content provided by Digital Native)