Who said we are foes?” asked Dhanush and STR, the two sensations of Tamil cinema, who were said to be rivals for years, at perhaps one of the significant film events in the recent times. This happened during the audio launch of Santhanam’s (who was introduced to K’town by STR) upcoming movie Sakka Podu Podu Raja, which marks Simbu’s debut as a music composer. And the best part is that Dhanush was the chief guest, who unveiled the first set of audio. While Dhanush was cool and composed, Simbu was in an emotional state and the stars hugged each other with warmth and the crowd absolutely enjoyed the moment.
“STR and I have been there for each other especially during problems, without any expectations, and it is the middlemen, who create confusion and please don’t believe them,” Dhanush remarked amidst thunderous applause from STR and Dhanush’s fans. “Simbu had sent me the songs after he completed the album and I gave my feedback. He asked me to come for the audio launch. It’s my duty to come if Simbu calls me,” added Dhanush. Simbu, who was mired in controversy with the producer of his last film, AAA, which turned out to be a damp squib, seemed quite emotional as he was meeting his fans after a long time. “Music is something I really enjoy. I agreed to this film for Santhanam. I don’t want to claim that I introduced him. I thought he was a good talent and will shine one day. He has proved that today.”
STR
With a smile he added, “I thank my ‘enemy’ Dhanush... I might sound arrogant, but people perceive me to be that anyway. When Dhanush was launched in Thulluvadho Ilamai, I used to be at my close buddy Yuvan Shankar Raja’s studio. He was composing the film’s songs then. Seeing Dhanush on screen, I used to comment that the hero doesn’t look good. However, the film was a big hit and later I watched his second film Kadhal Konden first day first show along with Dhanush!” After a pause, he added, “Who said one should not have over confidence? One should have it to achieve something in life. I told Dhanush that day that one day both of us would become big stars in Tamil cinema.” Simbu disclosed that love is the only factor, which connects both of them.
There might be so many rumours about our competition, but we always had true love and respect for each other. We avoided talking about it openly due to various reasons, despite miscreants trying to create troubles between us. Dhanush is the humblest person I know. For that very reason, he has come all the way for me,” says Simbu talking about Dhanush. Admitting that he has erred in the past, STR said, “I’ve always been very honest whether it’s in my relationships or other things. No one will keep on finding fault with me, unless there’s something really wrong with me. I agree that I have made mistakes as well. I openly apologise here today, if there is any mistake on my part.”
Coming to the topic of AAA’s fiasco, he stated, “I do agree that AAA didn’t do well, due to budget issues it had to be made in two parts. Nevertheless, I would
compensate with my future films. But they could have told me during the shoot or after the shoot — but bringing the problem after six months really hurts me.” Clarifying that he is very much a part of Mani Ratnam’s film, Simbu reveals, “People have been saying that a ‘red card’ notice has been slapped on me. I don’t know. Mani sir has until now told me that I am indeed a part of his movie. I don’t know why he has so much of faith in me, perhaps he may be a fan of me like you guys (laughs).”
Sending out a clear message to his fans, he said, “There have been allegations on me and I take it in my own stride. What’s ultimate — red card? It’s fine. God has given me talents; my parents have brought me up well. So, even if I don’t work in films, I will keep doing things, which will make my fans happy. I know nothing other than cinema and I am not going anywhere.” Earlier, Dhanush said, “Simbu and I debuted as heroes together in 2002. We have always been pitted against each other. It is easy to get opportunities but it’s tough to sustain the position. It’s been 15 years and Simbu is still here. I came to the industry accidentally without much interest. But Simbu was born in a filmy family and has been acting from the age of three. I told him that I couldn’t dance like Simbu. I still say the same.”
Making a humble request to STR and all the fans, he said, “Simbu’s fans should watch my films and it is vice-versa. The love we have for one person shouldn’t turn into hate for someone else. Like me, your fans do not expect from you and on behalf of them, I appeal to you that you should give at least two films per year.
Santhanam-starrer Sakka Podu Podu Raja is produced by VTV Ganesh and directed by Sethuraman. Yuvan Shankar Raja, Harish Kalyan, actor Sethu and director Rajesh were also present at the audio launch.
