Vikram's Dhruva Natchathiram, directed by Gautham Vasudev Menon, which has been in the cans for many years, is all set to see the light of the day soon as Madras High Court Judge Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy has facilitated its release on or before June 15.
Previously, investors K Punniyamoorthy and K Premkumar expressed their willingness to allow the film's release, provided that the revenue generated is routed through an escrow account. The court has now ordered the opening of a new dedicated bank account under the name 'Kondaduvom Entertainment' and directed a lawyer to be appointed as an supervisor to monitor all financial transactions, including income and expenses.
Further, the judge also clarified that no payments, whether as salary or profit share, should be made to any partner of Kondaduvom Entertainment without the court's permission.
Gautham Vasudev Menon still needs to secure funds from investors in order to clear pending dues owed before the film’s release. Additionally, he is also set to hold discussions with theatre owners and other stakeholders before finalising the film's release date.
The judge also stated that if, despite best efforts, the film cannot be released before June 15, the concerned parties can approach the court seeking an extension of time.
A confirmation from the makers regarding Dhruva Natchathiram's release is yet to be shared by the makers.
The production of Dhruva Natchathiram began in 2017. However, the film was met with multiple hurdles including financial and legal issues, along with the COVID-19 pandemic. It languished in production hell for years before wrapping filming in 2023.
In September 2023, the producers revealed that the film would hit screens on November 24, 2023. However, just a day before the scheduled release, it was put on hold indefinitely owing to pending financial complications.
Later, in January 2024, the team indicated a possible February 2024 release, but the plan did not materialise.
In the meantime, another delayed film of Gautham Vasudev Menon, Joshua: Imai Pol Kaakha was released in March 2024. The film is a part of Dhruva Natchathiram universe.
Apart from Vikram, Dhruva Natchathiram also stars Vinayakan, Ritu Varma, Parthiban, Simran and Radikaa Sarathkumar, among others. With cinematography by Manoj Paramahamsa, Jomon T John, Santhana Krishnan, and Ravichandran, Dhruva Natchathiram has editing by Praveen Antony. The film is backed by Ondraga Entertainment in association with Oruoorileoru Film House.