First-look poster: Dhanush in and as ‘Ilaiyaraaja’

In the first-look poster, a young Dhanush holds a bag in the backdrop of the old Chennai—previously known as Madras.

llaiyaraaja is directed by Arun Matheswaran who recently worked with Dhanush in Captain Miller (2024).

It is a joint production of Connekkt Media, PK Prime Production and Mercuri Group.

Nirav Shah will handle the cinematography and music will be scored by Ilaiyaraaja himself.

‘An honour to play the role’

Kamal Haasan, Ilaiyaraaja, and Dhanush launched the first-look poster of ‘Ilaiyaraaja’. (X)

Sharing the poster, Dhanush wrote on his X that he was honoured to play the part.

At the event, Dhanush said he used to listen to a song by Ilaiyaraaja before doing a scene.

He pointed out, “I’m a fan and a devotee of Ilaiyaraaja. His music is my companion and it suits everyone. His music is my acting teacher.”

“I used to listen to a song or BGM before a scene – and his music tells me how to act in the scene. That’s how I act. Vetri Maaran has seen that,” Dhanush added.

The actor said, “Many say it is a huge challenge and responsibility. But I don’t think so. I know his music will guide me. He’s been there with me and will always be there with me.”

The pictures of Dhanush, Ilaiyaraaja and Kamal Haasan from the film launch event are trending in social media.

The shooting for this much-awaited project commences by the end of this year.

Ilaiyaraaja will hit the silver screens next year.

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