At the grand success meet of Kuberaa, actor Dhanush took a moment to reflect on the triumph of a film that has defied cinematic stereotypes, celebrating storytelling rooted in human emotion over spectacle.

Addressing a packed hall, Dhanush said, “Today, there is a myth that only an action spectacle with choppers flying, bomb blasts and blood splatter can bring audiences to theatres. You [Shekhar Kammula] have busted this myth with Kuberaa. Your film is a hope to future filmmakers, who will no longer have to run behind action and extravagance but instead chase genuine human emotions.”

The National Award-winning actor continued, “Today we don't need action and superheroes—we need superhumans with emotions. Kuberaa in Telugu and Tourist Family in Tamil have proven this.”

Dhanush also invoked his family’s teachings to express his gratitude. “My mother has told me not to talk much after achieving success. So, I am not going to talk much today. But my father has taught me to count my blessings, and I am eternally grateful for this success,” he said, visibly moved. “I am extremely happy to see the smile on the face of my director, Shekhar Kammula, and my producer. My father says that the smile on the face of the producer will define the success and failure of a film.”

The evening also turned emotional when Dhanush acknowledged the presence of Telugu cinema megastar Chiranjeevi, calling him a symbol of auspicious beginnings. “In Tamil, when we begin writing something, we put a ‘Pillaiyar Suzhi’. The Telugu equivalent of this is ‘Om’. Chiranjeevi sir is like the ‘Om’ of our film Kuberaa.”

Kuberaa, directed by Sekhar Kammula, stars Dhanush, Nagarjuna, Rashmika Mandanna, and Jim Sarbh. The film, produced by Sri Venkateswara Cinemas LLP and Amigos Creations, features music by Devi Sri Prasad. The film released on June 20 in multiple languages and opened to middling reviews.