For the first time in the history of Tamil cinema, two top comedians-turned-heroes, Vivekh and Santhanam, are coming together in a movie, titled Sakka Podu Podu Raja. Interestingly, the title is the first line of a popular number of Sivaji Ganesan. It was Santhanam who was instrumental in bringing the Chinna Kalaivaanar in his flick — “Right from my school days, I have been a big fan of Vivekh sir. After becoming an actor, I even have referred to him many times in my movies! I even had this dialogue, ‘Aayiram Vivekh vandha kooda, ungalai ellaam thiruttha mudiyadhu! (You people are incorrigible even if thousands Vivekhs come). When my producer VTV Ganesh, director Sethuraman and I discussed the script and the comedy track, we wanted someone who would elevate and justify the film’s climax. I could not think of any other actor other than Vivekh sir for that role. Though, initially, we had apprehension, I approached him and he was very supportive and gladly came on board. We discussed all the scenes beforehand.”
As far as Vivekh is concerned, he was particular about joining hands with Santhanam as he loved the latter’s comedy. “I am following Santa’s humour, and I don’t find any animosity in him. He has formed a style for himself and is going up the ladder. In Hindi films, multi-starrers are common. However, in Kollywood, seeing major comedians together in films seems to be tough. I was impressed with Santhanam’s straight forward approach,” He quickly adds, “I went home and asked my children about the decision of teaming up with Santhanam.. and they went, ‘Why not, daddy?’” While Vaibhavi Shandilya plays the heroine, VTV Ganesh essays Santa’s father. Ace actor Sampath is back in this flick after a long hiatus.
