Bharathiraja Was The First Choice for Vijay Sethupathi’s Role In Viduthalai: Vetri Maaran

Filmmaker Vetri Maaran was full of praise for actors Soori and Vijay Sethupathi during the trailer launch of their upcoming Viduthalai Part 1. The two-part film series follows the story of a rebel group and its leader Perumal Vaathiyaar (Vijay Sethupathi). Soori, in a never-before-seen role, plays a cop who fights his superiors. During the trailer launch, Vetri Maaran revealed that the first choice for the role of Perumal Vaathiyaar was Bharathiraja. 

He said, “When we scouted the location, we had to go to the top of the terrain and shoot. So, I told Bharathiraja that he would not be able to walk up the mountain. And the only other person I thought would best fit the role was Vijay Sethupathi.” Though they agreed to shoot Vijay Sethupathi’s portions for only eight days, the filming process went on for about 65 days. “The role of the character kept getting enhanced and we shot for a longer time. Although Sethu’s presence will be limited in the first part, the entire story revolves around his character and he will be present completely in the second part. His character questions a lot of practices and status quo, but we were confident and comfortable because Sethu was essaying the role,” said the filmmaker.  

Talking about Soori, Vetri Maaran said that the actor travelled with the team for over two years. “I wanted to do a simple film and that’s why I roped in Soori, but we went on to develop the script and he has been with us throughout like a team member. He has done a lot of strenuous scenes that went on for multiple takes. And the effect of his dedication can be seen on screen.”

Viduthalai Part 1 is slated to hit the screens on March 31.