Amidst the sea of fans who had gathered outside Ilaiyaraaja's residence in Kodambakkam to celebrate his 83rd birthday, director Mari Selvaraj, who recently announced his collaboration with the emminent composer for his upcoming film Manjanathi, got in, presented a book and shared his wishes. Expressing his happiness and excitement on joining hands with Ilaiyaraaja, the director also revealed a key connect that Manjanathi would share with his 2024 critically-acclaimed hit Vaazhai.
"Ever since I've been drawn to films, I have always felt close with Ilaiyaraaja sir. Working with him has been a lifelong dream and a yearning. When I learnt the craft of making movies, I ensured that my patient endeavours lead me here to work with him," he shared, noting how the composer has always had a deep respect for his films.
He further underlined how he feels "incredibly happy" with the way he collaborates with him, talks to him, celebrates him and treats him like his own child. "Manjanathi will stand as a testament to the love and respect I have for him. For the first time, I have written a film with the composer in mind and its music will be the heart of the story," he said.
When probed if Manjanathi would serve as a sequel to Vaazhai, Mari Selvaraj said, "You can say it like that, but I want to share my life's experiences, like Vaazhai with different names. Manjanathi will be another part to Vaazhai, but it is definitely not its sequel."
The upcoming film marks Mari Selvaraj's sixth directorial and first collaboration with Ilaiyaraaja. On Monday, actors Kayadu Lohar and Priyanka Mohan confirmed their casting in the film.The makers are yet to announce more details about the film's extended cast, crew, plot, genre, and release date. This is the first collaboration for both Kayadu Lohar and Priyanka Mohan with Mari Selvaraj.
Mari, who made his debut with Pariyerum Perumal, last helmed Bison Kaalamaadan. His other works include Karnan, Maamannan and Vaazhai. He was also set to collaborate with Dhanush on what was previously titled D56. The film was set to be backed by Vels Film International, with music by AR Rahman. However, as updates about the film are scanty, reports suggest that Mari will complete Manjanathi before he begins the film.
