Soundarya Rajinikanth is ecstatic and excited along with fans following the re-release of Padayappa. Expressing her happiness, the director spoke to the press following the screening of the film. "I'm really happy that you all are celebrating the film after 25 years. I watched the film with fans. The energy in the theatre was palpable and appa's story felt fresh even after two decades. I have watched songs in repeat mode, but this was the first time I saw the iconic oonjal scene once again. Appa is an emotion. I can't say anything beyond that," she said, urging fans to celebrate Padayappa by watching it in theatres again and again.
Thanking fans for their love for Rajinikanth as well as for the film, Soundarya noted how many scenes and dialogues in Padayappa have continued to live with fans even after decades. "Appa is very happy. You must have seen the video of appa. Every word he spoke came from his heart," she added.
When reporters probed if she will reunite with her father for a new film, she clarified, "I had already directed the interview video and I consider that itself a blessing. If at all I direct another film, God will decide the right time for it."
Earlier, Soundarya had taken to her X handle to share her experience directing the interview and thanked her team for supporting her. "What an unforgettable, joy-filled experience directing Appa for this legendary interview! Huge love to my amazing crew, we created pure magic and I’m so proud of us. Happy birthday, my life. Forever celebrating you, Appa, and your extraordinary journey."
Padayappa (1999) was re-released on December 12, coinciding with Rajinikanth's 75th birthday and the completion of 50 years in cinema. The film is running with housefull shows in theatres. Within the first weekend, the film minted over Rs 12 crore at the box office.
Soundarya Rajinikanth last directed Kochadaiiyaan with her father. The animated period action film, written by KS Ravikumr, was India's first photorealistic motion capture film. It starred Rajinikanth and Deepika Padukone in leading roles while with R Sarath Kumar, Aadhi Pinisetty, Jackie Shroff, Nassar, Shobana and Rukmini Vijayakumar were seen in supporting roles. Later, she helmed Velaiilla Pattadhari 2 with Dhanush and Kajol.