Actor-producer Sivakarthikeyan has been in the spotlight recently, especially after his notable cameo in the film GOAT, alongside Vijay and Venkat Prabhu. This appearance has been interpreted as a symbolic passing of the torch, as Vijay transitions from cinema to politics. However, Sivakarthikeyan’s remarks at the pre-release event for his own production, Kottukkaali, stirred controversy, hinting at tensions with actor Dhanush, who previously supported Sivakarthikeyan’s debut film, Ethirneechal.
Sivakarthikeyan expressed gratitude for GOAT, stating, “Vijay sir’s gesture was truly magnanimous. His journey is extraordinary, and he has etched a unique place in Tamil cinema history. No one can replace him.” When questioned about the criticisms from the Kottukkaali event, he dismissed them, emphasizing his preference for a simpler life without social media distractions. “Such controversies are trivial and are often sparked by those who lack better things to focus on,” he remarked. Currently, he is promoting Amaran, a film based on the life of Ashoka Chakra awardee Major Mukund Varadarajan.
A Personal Connection to ‘Amaran’
Amaran marks Sivakarthikeyan’s first foray into biopics, and notably, his portrayal of an army officer. He revealed that his late father, a police officer, inspired his decision to take on this role. “For over two decades, I have lived with my father’s memories. This film offered me a chance to embody him, making it a must-do project for me,” he shared.
Sivakarthikeyan emphasized the importance of authenticity in his performance, detailing how the film’s director, Rajkumar Periasamy, helped him delve into Major Mukund’s character. By interacting with the late officer’s family and fellow soldiers, Sivakarthikeyan gained insight into Major Mukund’s joyful nature and deep emotional intelligence.
Filmed in actual locations in Kashmir where Major Mukund served, Amaran captures the real-life atmosphere of military operations. Sivakarthikeyan described his experience handling genuine military equipment during filming, noting how the soldiers treated their weapons with a sense of familiarity, stating, “For them, these tools felt like extensions of their bodies.”
Facing the Realities of Military Life
The actor expressed that spending time with Tamil soldiers deeply affected him. Their candid discussions about loss and the emotional toll of military life left a lasting impression. “They spoke about their experiences with such casualness that it was unsettling,” he recalled. This emotional engagement has informed his portrayal of Major Mukund, emphasizing the soldier’s resilience in the face of adversity.
Sivakarthikeyan acknowledged that stepping outside his comedic comfort zone to portray a soldier presented both mental and physical challenges. He underwent significant physical transformations for different parts of the character, illustrating his dedication to the role. “Director Rajkumar believed I could connect with the audience, and I trusted his guidance through the process,” he said.
Authenticity in Portrayal
In an industry where army narratives are often relegated to mere subplots, Amaran seeks to authentically depict the life of a soldier. Produced by Kamal Haasan’s Raaj Kamal Films International, the film’s commitment to authenticity is underscored by the extensive research and cooperation with military personnel.
Sivakarthikeyan’s encounter with Major Mukund’s family was profound. He fondly recalls addressing Major Mukund’s father as “appa,” reflecting the deep respect he felt for the family. He emphasized that Amaran is not just a war film but a story about a soldier’s journey, which includes the equally significant role of Major Mukund’s wife, Indhu Rebecca Varghese, played by Sai Pallavi.
Anticipation for Release
As Amaran approaches its release on October 31, coinciding with Diwali, Sivakarthikeyan is enthusiastic about sharing this important story with audiences. “It’s crucial for us to represent the lives of soldiers authentically on screen. Our portrayal has resonated with real-life soldiers, and their emotional responses validate our efforts,” he concluded.
With music by GV Prakash Kumar, Amaran also stars Rahul Bose, Geetha Kailasam, and Sree, promising a compelling cinematic experience that honors the life and legacy of Major Mukund Varadarajan.