The pre-release event of the upcoming film Idli Kadai in Madurai turned into more than just a film promotion – it became a heartfelt and inspiring evening, thanks to an emotional and powerful speech by actor Dhanush. From recalling his family’s struggles to confirming long-awaited updates about Vada Chennai 2, Dhanush made the event one to remember.
Returning to Madurai after almost a decade, Dhanush began his speech by expressing how deeply connected he feels to the city. But instead of diving straight into film talk, he opened up about a moving chapter from his past. He revealed how his parents, at a time when they had no money for a bus ticket, walked nearly 130 kilometers from their village to Madurai to borrow bus fare from a relative. His mother was three months pregnant during this journey.
“The stage I’m standing on today is in the very city my pregnant mother walked to,” he said, his voice filled with emotion. Turning that story into motivation, he urged fans not just to clap for his journey, but to take inspiration from it. He encouraged everyone to work hard and strive to reach their own stage in life, adding that if his parents could do it, so could anyone.
The emotional tone shifted to nostalgic as Dhanush fondly recalled spending over 200 days in Madurai while shooting for Aadukalam, a film that won multiple National Awards. He described that period as one of the calmest and most peaceful phases of his life. Sharing a light-hearted memory, he mentioned how no one noticed him while filming the iconic “Otha Sollala” song, because he looked just like one of the locals.
Speaking about Idli Kadai, his upcoming release, Dhanush described it as a simple, emotionally driven film that families will connect with. While it might not be a grand spectacle, he believes its relatable narrative and grounded characters will resonate with audiences.
The crowd’s energy peaked when fans began demanding news about Vada Chennai 2. Without hesitation, Dhanush responded with what they had all been waiting for – he confirmed that filming for the much anticipated sequel will begin next year(2026), with the release planned for the following year (2027). This announcement instantly sent waves of excitement through the crowd.
In one of the most memorable moments of the night, the host asked Dhanush to reflect on how some of his most iconic movie dialogues relate to his real-life journey. Reflecting on the line, “We are the ones who swim in a Tsunami,” Dhanush spoke about how he entered the industry at just 16, facing criticism and doubt right from the beginning. He said his whole career has been about swimming against the tide, pushing forward despite the odds.
When asked about the dialogue, “Whether we win or lose, first we must fight,” he offered a grounded interpretation. In real life, he said, the fight should be one of hard work, learning, and self improvement – not against others, but within ourselves. He emphasized the importance of getting better each day.
Among all his lines, the one he considers the most important is: “Nobody can take education from us.” Dhanush called this his most meaningful dialogue, urging everyone to prioritize education as a lifelong asset that can never be taken away.
Also, thanking co-star Arun Vijay for his trust and quick acceptance of the Idli Kadai role. Showing his support, Dhanush gave a glowing review of Arun Vijay’s upcoming thriller, Retta Thala. He revealed he had seen 35 minutes of the film, which he proclaimed “extraordinary” and “very well done,” before wholeheartedly wishing Arun Vijay a blockbuster hit with the thriller.
When asked what relaxation means to him amid his packed schedule of acting, writing, and singing, Dhanush pointed to the cheering audience and said, “This is relaxation. This is fun.” He added that his biggest source of peace comes from spending quality time with his children.
He closed the event with heartfelt thanks to his fans, acknowledging their “constant, unwavering love” as the greatest gift of his career. Dhanush signed off with a promise to meet everyone again on October 1st for the release of Idli Kadai.
