RJ Balaji is currently gearing up for the release of his fourth directorial venture, Karuppu, starring Suriya in the lead role. On Monday, the actor-director, along with Suriya, visited Hyderabad for a pre-release promotional event for the film.

At the event, during his speech, RJ Balaji spoke about the rise of actor-turned-politician Vijay and what made him become the chief minister of Tamil Nadu. On Sunday, Vijay was sworn in as the chief minister after his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, emerged as the single largest party in the recent Tamil Nadu State Assembly elections.

He said, "A few years ago, everybody had different opinions about a man in Tamil Nadu. Nobody believed in him. A lot of people ridiculed him, and there was negative propaganda. But that man believed in himself, and he persisted with his dream and vision. Now, he has become the chief minister of Tamil Nadu. Two years ago, when the same C Joseph Vijay got into politics, people didn't believe him. He had complete faith that he would do well. That belief has translated to millions of Tamil people, and they've voted for him."

When Karuppu was first announced, there were reports suggesting that the film's director, RJ Balaji, initially approached Vijay for the film and later rewrote it for Suriya eventually. However, RJ Balaji recently clarified that he always only wrote it keeping Suriya in mind.

Indrans, Mansoor Ali Khan, Natty, Swaswika, Anagha Maya Ravi, Supreeth Reddy, and Sshivada, among others, play supporting roles in Karuppu. RJ Balaji will also be seen in an extended cameo role in the film. It is produced by Dream Warrior Pictures' SR Prakash Babu and SR Prabhu.

Karuppu's technical crew features music by Sai Abhyankkar, cinematography by GK Vishnu, editing by Kalaivanan, art direction by Arun Venjaramoodu, and stunt choreography by Vikram Mor. The film is all set to open in theatres on May 14.