Vadivelu is known for many of memorable roles but his portrayal of twin brothers Pulikesi and Ukraputhan in the 2006 comedy Imsai Arasan 23am Pulikesi is undoubtedly one of his best performances. A decade since the release of the film, its sequel went on the floors in Chennai in 2017. The film would have marked the reunion of Vadivelu, director Shankar and Chimbu Devan, the trio behind the success of the original. Three posters of the film, being jointly produced by Shankar and Lyca Productions, have been released so far.
The industry grapevine is that in-form and highly in demand comedian Yogi Babu may replace Vadivelu in this hugely anticipated sequel. Reports have emerged that talks have been initiated with Yogi Babu, who might soon come on board.
This follows Vadivelu opting out of the project last year after allegations from the makers over his intervention in almost every department of the film. There were also reports that Shankar was miffed about Vadivelu failing to turn up for shooting on several occasions, which was then taken to the Tamil Film Producers Council (TFPC). 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 the Nadigar Sangam, Vadivelu accused the makers of Imsai Arasan 24am Pulikesi of wasting his dates and clarified them he didn’t want to work with them. His letter said, “I gave them my dates till 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 with the 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 the TFPC banned him from acting, he will move the court to handle the matter legally.
The makers are yet to officially confirm whether they have signed Yogi Babu. Parvathy Omanakuttan had been signed opposite Vadivelu for 24am Pulikesi, with a battalion of supporting cast. Ghibran was roped in to compose the music.
(Content provided by Digital Native)