Rajinikanth requests journalists not to review films in first 3 days of release

On Monday morning, Annai Illam, one of the famous landmark bungalows at Chevalier Sivaji Ganesan Road, was bustling with activity. Traffic jams ensued as celebrities including Superstar Rajinikanth, were seen entering  the famed home.

The occasion was the audio launch of the film Neruppuda, the debut production venture of actor Vikram Prabhu, grandson of Sivaji Ganesan and son of actor Prabhu, at their own abode.

It’s common knowledge that the words ‘Neruppu da’ have been lingering on everybody’s lips ever since Kabali  released last year — and who else would be appropriate, but the Superstar himself, to unveil the audio? As he began his speech, Rajinikanth said in a light vein, “Had Sivaji appa been here, the first question he would’ve asked me would be ‘Ennada enakku pottiya thaadi vechirukkiyaa? (Are you trying to compete with my beard?). All said and done, no one could compete with him in any regard.”

Reminiscing his days with Sivaji Ganesan at Annai Illam, Rajini said, “When I was working in the film Naan Vazha Vaippen in 1977, I got a call one day from appa, and he asked me if I was free, since it was a Sunday. He said he wanted to host a biryani lunch for me. When I entered the house for the first time, I was totally spellbound by the grandiose of the mansion, which had a traditional charm to it. Then I was taken by surprise when I saw almost 250 people from various walks of life attend the feast. I thought appa had invited me alone! Later, I came to know about the unmatched hospitality of this family and that it was a practice every Sunday to host a lavish spread. Now the onus falls on Vikram Prabhu to carry on the legacy of his legendary grand-dad and father.”

Switching veins — reiterating what Vishal, in the capacity of Producers Council head, had stated earlier — the 2.0 star added, “Vishal’s request to social media journalists to give some breathing time to producers when a film is released, by not reviewing it in the first three days, was a meaningful plea. I totally support his idea. Kindly review the movies with some responsibility, without hurting others.”
Also taking a dig at some producers who indulge in enticing promotions, he said, “Every producer must realise that everyone associated with the movie — like distributors, exhibitors, those who buy the rights... should make money. Please do not get carried away by the mammoth promotions that are done to some films. It may land you in trouble! Do an analysis by yourself and get the facts correct and then fix a price for it. Later on, do not blame others for your losses.”
Neruppuda, directed by debutant Ashok Kumar has Vikram Prabhu and Nikki Galrani in the lead with Sean Roldan composing the music.