'Parasakthi' star Sivakarthikeyan was to play the lead in 'Maanaadu'; reveals why he backed Silambarasan

'Parasakthi' starring Sivakarthikeyan was released in cinemas on January 10. The film is directed by Sudha Kongara and stars Ravi Mohan, Atharvaa, and Sreeleela. Since the release of the film, the team has been leaving no stone unturned to promote the film. During the promotions, Sivakarthikeyan informed us about the movie he was very glad to help make and other amusing experiences he has had in the industry as well. One of them is certainly one of the best that anyone would have experienced. Here’s what he said.

Sivakarthikeyan recalls the impact and legacy of 'Maanaadu'

'Maanaadu' stars Silambarasan and was directed by Venkat Prabhu that was released in 2021. Due to its original and unique time-loop story, the film was a critical and commercial success with political undertones. It also featured thrilling performances by Silambrasan and SJ Surya along with a riveting BGM score by Yuvan Shankar Raja. Also, Maanaadu was a come-back film for Silambrasan.

Uncertainty during 'Maanaadu' shoot

However, as per earlier reports, ‘Maanaadu’ had no easy journey as it made its way on to the big screen. It was reported that the filming had its fair share of hiccups along the line, leading to speculations around creative differences and production troubles. Reportedly, after the first schedule for the film, it was said to be delayed and the fate of the film was under question. There were even talks surrounding the film that it would undergo changes with respect to its casting as well, following the doubts around the movie.

Actor reveals he turned down lead offer

In a recent interview aired on the production house YouTube, Sivakarthikeyan disclosed that following the completion of the first schedule of 'Maanaadu' and the eventual shelving of the project, an idea was thrown up to make the movie with Sivakarthikeyan. But he asserted that he rejected the idea, citing the fact that the movie would be a 'blockbuster' only if it had Silambarasan in it. He added that he told them to pass on to his team that Silambarasan was a perfect fit for the script of the movie and that any movie without him was bound to fail. Given the incredible success the 'Maanaadu' movie eventually had, this move is now being hailed as magnanimous and incredibly prescient of Sivakarthikeyan.Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”