RJ Balaji has opened up about working with Sai Abhyankkar in his upcoming directorial, Karuppu, starring Suriya in the lead role. Speaking at a recent Cineulagam event, the actor-director opened up about AR Rahman's exit from the project, which led to his collaboration with Sai Abhyankkar.

"AR Rahman sir was supposed to compose music for Karuppu. We even announced it, but somehow Sir had to leave the project. My entire team and I were upset about Rahman Sir's exit, but the show must go on. Suddenly, I got reminded of Sai and called my friend, Think Music head Santhosh, who knew him."

Although everybody around him was a little unsure about entrusting an up-and-coming musician with a big film, RJ Balaji was confident. "When I enquired about Sai composing for Karuppu, he was unsure. So were my producers and other teammates. But I was confident about him, as he is in a phase where he wants to prove himself. After we signed up with him, he turned out to be like Java Sundaresan, signing films back to back, ranging from an Allu Arjun to Karthi, Dhanush and more leading actors' films."

Recently, Sai Abhyankkar took to X to tease audiences with an update about Karuppu. He wrote, "Just saw the final out of K. Will be worth the wait!" In July 2025, fans got a first look at the film with the release of its teaser. Sai released the first piece of music from Karuppu, titled 'Verappa', which featured in the teaser, soon after. Another single, 'God Mode', was also released soon after.

Karuppu also stars Trisha as the female lead, reuniting her with her Aaru (2005) co-star Suriya. Indrans, Mansoor Ali Khan, Natty, Swaswika, Anagha Maya Ravi, Supreeth Reddy, and Sshivada, among others, play supporting roles. RJ Balaji will also be seen in a cameo role in the film. It is produced by Dream Warrior Pictures' SR Prakash Babu and SR Prabhu.

Karuppu's technical crew also features cinematography by GK Vishnu, editing by Kalaivanan, art direction by Arun Venjaramoodu, and stunt choreography by Vikram Mor. A release date for the film is yet to be announced by the makers.