We had previously reported that Sillu Karupatti-fame Halitha Shameem's next directorial venture, Aelay, starring Manikandan and Samuthirakani, will get a theatrical release this Friday. In a surprising turn of events, one of the makers of the film, Y Not Studios has now confirmed that the film will instead have a television release. The film will have its world premiere on Star Vijay on February 28 at 3 pm. 

A statement released by Y Not Studios says, "Just three days before the much-anticipated theatrical release, due to certain unforeseen and surprising policy developments, theatres were not made available for the film and we were left with no other option but to skip the theatrical release. To ensure that the film be made available to the larger audience, we are partnering with STAR Vijay. We remain committed to nurturing talent and making available quality content to the audience across platforms including theatres."

Speaking about the film, Halitha Shameem says, "It’s exhilarating to see that the film will be available to huge crowds on the same day. I thank my producers and Star Television for backing this film and ensuring the best platform to showcase the film to the world, through this television premiere."

Produced by YNOT Studios, Reliance Entertainment and Wallwatcher Films, Aelay will marks the reunion of Samuthirakani and Halitha after 2019's anthology film Sillu Karupatti.