Under the dazzling lights of Chennai’s Nehru Stadium, the audio launch of Idli Kadai (slated to hit the big screens on October 1st worldwide) turned into a grand celebration of cinema, camaraderie, and memories. The event brought together a galaxy of stars and filmmakers, all gathered to show their love and admiration for the film and its driving force, Dhanush. As fans filled the stadium with electrifying energy, the night unfolded like a heartfelt ode to Tamil cinema and the passion that fuels it.
Veteran actor Parthiban, known for his poetic charm, didn’t hold back his admiration. “I see only a few people as real directors… one such director is Dhanush,” he declared, adding with his signature wit, “I’m happy to be a Mini Idli in this Idli Kadai.” He painted a beautiful picture, calling Selvaraghavan the Aayirathil Oruvan and Dhanush, the Pathaayirathil Oruvan: a once-in-a-lifetime artist in his eyes.
Sathyaraj, ever graceful and composed, spoke warmly of his experience. “I’ve always wanted to act with Dhanush,” he shared. “He’s got so much clarity as a director.” Speaking about the film, he assured the audience, “It’s a very meaningful film. The climax will be enjoyed by everyone. My character exceeded my expectations… and I really like Dhanush’s smile.”
Music composer and rising sensation Sai Abhyankkar added youthful energy to the night. “My playlist is full of Dhanush sir’s songs,” he grinned before breaking into a spontaneous rendition of “Yaathe Yaathe.” Expressing his eagerness to work with Dhanush, he listed Vadachennai, Asuran, Polladhavan, Padikadhavan, and Thiruchitrambalam as his favorites.
Producer Ishari Ganesh sent the crowd into a frenzy with a surprise update that stole the night – Vada Chennai 2 is officially on. “Dhanush sir gave the go-ahead,” he announced, adding that the much awaited sequel with director Vetrimaaran is set to begin soon. The mere mention of Vada Chennai 2 sparked thunderous cheers across the stadium, proving once again the unmatched love fans have for the iconic combo.
Director Thamizharsan Pachamuthu (Lubber Pandhu fame) took the stage with heartfelt nostalgia, recalling his early admiration for Dhanush during the Kadhal Konden days. “From 2002 to 2010, I used to read in newspapers about Dhanush sir’s film combos. I’m happy to read my combo news with him now,” he beamed, overwhelmed at sharing the stage with a star he once watched from the audience.
Rajkumar Periyasamy (Amaran fame), another director in awe of Dhanush, recounted his early movie memories. “The first film I watched alone with friends was Thulluvadho Ilamai,” he said, calling Kadhal Konden Dhanush’s arrival statement. He went on to praise his filmography one by one, like a fan reminiscing about the milestones of a legend.
GV Prakash, both composer and long-time friend of Dhanush, gave the audience a peek into their bond. “It’s an emotional film, filled with rooted emotions,” he revealed, teasing that two folk songs and a fun western number are still on the way. The highlight of his speech came when he shared that Dhanush offered him a brother’s role in Raayan, which he declined. “That role had to betray him,” GVP said firmly. “I won’t betray my Nanban even in a film.” He predicted a box office storm in the first week of October, when a seven-day holiday would boost collections.
Arun Vijay, who teams up with Dhanush in the film, was full of praise for the star’s directorial skills. “After Raayan, I wanted to work with Dhanush. The way he narrated the story and my character impressed me deeply,” he said. He drew comparisons to working with filmmakers like Manirathnam, Gautham Menon, and Magizh Thirumeni, noting that Dhanush stood out with his clarity and calmness. “Acting, directing, handling artists and production is not a joke,” AV stressed, adding that Dhanush has left his mark in all languages.
Sreyas, Dhanush’s manager, lit up the stage with a fiery, emotional speech. “If you have guts, face someone head-on… don’t attack from behind,” he thundered. Channeling the words of their Thalaivar, he urged Dhanush to always be the good man. In a layered statement about fame and criticism, he explained how true leadership is about facing opposition, not manipulating it. “There are two ways to become famous,” he said. “One is to climb to the top with blood and sweat. The other is to pull someone down from the top. Those who try to cross you are the ones who grew because of you.” His words, though cryptic at times, resonated deeply with the fans.
Nithya Menen, who stars in the film, called Idli Kadai a journey. “I was shooting Thalaivan Thalaivii in a parotta kadai and Idli Kadai here simultaneously,” she laughed. “This film is full of heart and many emotions. Thank you Dhanush, for making me part of it.”
Finally, when Dhanush took the mic, the crowd erupted. The chants of “Om Namashivaya” echoed for minutes before he could even speak. Thanking the crowd for staying until 10PM, he greeted the cast with gratitude. “GV is a blessing,” he said, appreciating his insistence on long-lasting melodies over trendy songs. “Anybody can do what’s trendy. But this takes guts.”
He turned philosophical, talking about how music has evolved. “We now have crores of songs in our hands. But only 10 seconds to like a song. We need to give good music to the next generation,” he said, encouraging Sai Abhyankkar to create meaningful melodies. Then came a surprise, Dhanush shared why he chose the title Idli Kadai. “Usually, the hero’s name is the title. But this film is different. One of my most important childhood memories is tied to an idli Kadai,” he said, as the crowd leaned in, listening like children hearing a bedtime story.
In his final moments on stage, Dhanush offered advice, not just as an actor or director, but as someone who cares. “Don’t forget your roots or history. Take care of your family. I meet a lot of fans who are doctors, engineers, lawyers… That’s what I want. Focus on your life.”
To those who label themselves as “haters,” he had only this to say: “There’s no such thing. Everyone watches every film. A small group of 30 people with 300 IDs can spread negativity. But they’ll watch the film too. Ground reality is different. Our boys are a blast in real life. If they give love, we’ll give love back. Anbuvin eluchi dha ellame.” A line that brought back echoes of Vadachennai, and left the stadium vibrating with emotion.
The Idli Kadai audio launch was more than just a promotional event, it was a shared memories, unbreakable bonds, and the kind of rooted, soulful cinema that stays with you long after the lights dim.