With director Pandiraaj's Thalaivan Thalaivii, starring Vijay Sethupathi and Nithya Menen, set for a theatrical release on July 25, the director shares an interesting anecdote about his first meeting with the actor.

In a YouTube interview with popular television host Gobinath, Pandiraaj stated that when Vijay Sethupathi expressed interest in playing the male lead character in Pasanga, he declined the offer. "Referring another actor when he is struggling to find an opportunity is almost impossible. Vijay Sethupathi was eager to find a break and looking for opportunities, he didn't just leave when he was turned down, but he later introduced Vemal to me and asked if he would fit the role. That was how I picked Vemal for the movie. This incident shows that he was a man of character. I don't understand why people spread rumours that he has attitude problems," Pandiraaj said.

Similarly, in another interview, Vijay Sethupathi said that he, Nithya Menen, and Pandiraaj would discuss the rumours and gossip to have a hearty laugh. "We were able to clear up rumours about each of us in such conversations. I don't understand what people will gain by slandering others for no reason," he shared.

Apart from the leads, the film stars Yogi Babu as Chitthirai, Chemban Vinod Jose as Arasangam, Saravanan as Sembaiyya, and Kaali Venkat as Amarasigamani in important roles. The supporting cast is rounded up with RK Suresh, Mynaa Nandhini, Deepa, Roshini Haripriyan, and Sendrayan, among others. The film, Vijay Sethupathi’s 52nd, is produced under the Sathya Jyothi Films banner.

Thalaivan Thalaivii brings Vijay and Nithya back together after their work on the 2022 Malayalam film 19(1)(a). On the technical front, the film has cinematographer M Sukumar, composer Santhosh Narayanan, and editor Pradeep E Ragav. Pandiraaj has previously helmed films like Pasanga, Kadaikutty Singam and Etharkkum Thunindhavan.

The film will release on July 25, along with Vadivelu-Fahadh Faasil starrer Maareesan.