Thalaivi: Director Vijay talks about casting Arvind Swamy as MGR

On the occasion of the 103rd birthday anniversary of Late Former Tamil Nadu CM MGR, the first look of his character played by Aravind Swami in ‘Thalaivi’ was unveiled on Friday.

Vijay, director of the film says, “As I have said before, it’s an honour for me to be getting an opportunity to direct a film like Thalaivi. To delve into the lives of legends, who have shaped Tamil Nadu in a greater way of what it is today is an amazing experience. But what has been a blend of the exciting and challenging process was the casting of artistes to essay these gigantic roles. In particular, after Kangana Ranaut was brought onboard for the character of honorable former Late CM Jayalalitha, we had to consider several artists for the role of honorable MGR. Finally, we felt Arvind Swami would befittingly look perfect. In simple words, we are now completely drenched in extreme astonishment to find him give immense life to the legendary character. Apart from our inputs, he spent sumptuous time and energy in getting to know more deeply about the legend’s life. Of course, MGR is still the most loved leader of zillions or else how would he become the only actor to be the recipient of Bharat Ratna Award.”

Produced by Vishnu Vardhan Induri and Shaailesh R Singh for Vibri Motion Pictures in association with Karma Media & Entertainment, ‘Thalaivi’ will have its worldwide release on June 26, 2020 in Hindi, Tamil & Telugu.