Kamal Haasan marked his birthday with a special announcement for his fans as filming for his upcoming Tamil film, Sandiyar, officially began on November 7. Directed by SU Arun Kumar, the project brings the veteran actor and filmmaker together for the first time. The makers confirmed the start of production through a new poster, giving audiences a glimpse of the intense world being created for the film.
Previously known by its working title, KH237, Sandiyar is expected to revolve around revenge and retribution, with action playing a significant role. The project also brings together a notable technical team, including music composer Anirudh Ravichander and stunt choreographers Anbariv.
Sandiyar Shooting Begins on Kamal Haasan’s 72nd Birthday
The makers announced that Sandiyar had gone on floors on November 7, coinciding with Kamal Haasan's 72nd birthday. Raaj Kamal Films International shared a new poster featuring the actor in a rugged avatar, holding a pistol and sporting grey hair and a moustache. The poster carried the line, "6 ROUNDS, ZERO MERCY. Revenge does give satisfaction, but…" The accompanying birthday message confirmed that filming had begun, making the occasion even more memorable for fans.
The production announcement follows the official unveiling of the film's title on November 6. With the first schedule now underway, the team has started work on the project, although details about its extended cast, storyline and release date have not yet been revealed.
SU Arun Kumar Directs, Anirudh Ravichander Composes Music
Sandiyar marks the first collaboration between Kamal Haasan and director SU Arun Kumar, who has earned recognition for films such as Pannaiyarum Padminiyum, Sethupathi, Sindhubaadh, Chithha and Veera Dheera Sooran.
Anirudh Ravichander has been brought on board to compose the film's music, continuing his association with Kamal Haasan after Vikram and Indian 2. The action sequences will be choreographed by the acclaimed duo Anbariv, known for their work on several major Indian action films.
The technical crew also includes Sunil KS as cinematographer, CS Balachander as production designer and Amritha Ram as costume designer. The combination of experienced technicians suggests that the film will place considerable emphasis on its visual atmosphere and action presentation.
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Kamal Haasan and R Mahendran Produce the Film
Kamal Haasan is producing Sandiyar alongside R Mahendran under the Raaj Kamal Films International banner. The project is presented in association with Turmeric Media, AP International Films and Homescreen Entertainment. The production brings together Kamal's acting and filmmaking experience with SU Arun Kumar's grounded storytelling approach.
While the makers have kept the plot and character details under wraps, the promotional material points towards a revenge-driven action drama. The film's working title, KH237, had kept fans curious about Kamal Haasan's next collaboration. The official title announcement has now given the project a distinct identity, while the birthday shoot commencement signals that production is moving ahead.
Sandiyar Revives the Title Kamal Haasan Once Dropped
The title Sandiyar also carries a significant history in Kamal Haasan's career. He had originally chosen the same name for his 2004 film, which eventually reached theatres as Virumaandi. The earlier title sparked controversy in 2003, when the political organisation Puthiya Tamizhagam, led by K. Krishnasamy, objected to its use. The group argued that the name could glorify caste-based violence and create tensions in southern Tamil Nadu.
Following protests and concerns surrounding the production, Kamal Haasan eventually changed the title to Virumaandi. More than two decades later, the actor has reclaimed the name for his new collaboration with SU Arun Kumar. Its return has added another layer of interest to the project, beyond its cast and creative team.
Final Take
With Sandiyar officially going on floors on his 72nd birthday, Kamal Haasan has given fans a memorable update about his next film. The reunion of an old title, a new director-actor collaboration and a strong technical team have already generated interest. More details about the cast, story and release plans are expected as production progresses.
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