With less than two weeks to go for the release of G.D.N, actor Priyamani has expressed hope that the Madhavan-starrer will introduce a wider audience to the life and legacy of industrial pioneer GD Naidu while also inspiring young innovators.
Speaking at the film's launch event, Priyamani, who plays Chellammal in the biographical drama, said she could not reveal much about her role but offered a glimpse into her character. "I can't reveal much about my role right now. But I can tell you one thing—my character's name is Chellammal. Once the film releases, you'll understand what kind of woman she was during that period," she said.
The actor added that she hopes the film will serve as an eye-opener, noting that many people are still unfamiliar with GD Naidu's contributions. "I think it will be an eye-opener for everyone because many people still don't know who G.D. Naidu was. When you mention his name, the first reaction is usually, 'Who is GD Naidu? What did he do?' I'm hoping that after watching this film, people will proudly say, 'Now we know who G.D. Naidu is.' It will be a proud moment for all of us to realise that India had such a visionary. I believe this film will be valuable for everyone," she said.
Speaking about the GD Naidu innovation contest conducted alongside the film's promotions, Priyamani said the overwhelming response from participants reflected the country's growing interest in innovation. She added that seeing so many inventions being submitted was encouraging and described the initiative as "just the beginning", expressing confidence that it could inspire many more inventors in India.
The actor also had a message for youngsters, urging them to persevere despite setbacks. "Move forward with confidence. No matter what hurdles come your way, don't keep thinking, 'Can I do this?' Or can I not?' Hurdles are meant to be crossed. Sometimes you'll overcome them quickly, and sometimes it will take time. But as they say, slow and steady wins the race. So don't get disappointed. Just keep going, stay positive, and everything will eventually fall into place," she said.
Reflecting on portraying a story set in pre-Independence India, Priyamani said learning about GD Naidu's life had filled her with pride. Asked what she would ask the inventor if given the chance to meet him, she said she would want to understand the thought process behind his extraordinary ideas.
"I would ask him, 'Sir, tell me what was going on in your mind. Otherwise, I'll try to dissect it myself!' That was actually my job while working on this film because it's set in the pre-Independence era. When you realise that someone like him existed during that time, it genuinely fills you with pride. If I had the chance to sit down with him, I'd ask, 'Sir, what were you thinking?' How did these ideas come to you?' Those are the questions I would love to ask him," she said.
Written and directed by Krishnakumar Ramkumar of Oho Enthan Baby fame, G.D.N stars Madhavan in the lead role alongside Dushara Vijayan, Sathyaraj, Jayaram, Priyamani and Yogi Babu. The film is produced by Vijay Moolan and Varghese Moolan under Varghese Moolan Pictures, with Madhavan and Sarita also backing the project under Tricolour Films.
Featuring music by Govind Vasantha and cinematography by Aravind Kamalanathan, G.D.N is slated to hit theatres on July 17 in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada and Hindi.
