The biopic stars Rashmika Mandanna as the legendary Carnatic vocalist MS Subbulakshmi and is directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri. The project also marks another collaboration between Tinnanuri and Anirudh, following their work together on the Telugu films Jersey and Kingdom.
Speaking at the launch event, Kamal also spoke at length about MS Subbulakshmi’s contribution to Indian music and the impact her voice had across the country. He described her as a musical empress who united India, particularly South India, through her music. He noted that she sang in Sanskrit, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and several other languages, adding, “No matter which language she sang in, she elevated its beauty through her music. That is the timeless message her music has given all of us.”
Kamal further recalled his personal connection with her music. “M S Amma has been a tremendous source of inspiration in my life. Whenever I listen to her Suprabhatam, Lalitha Sahasranamam, or Rangapura Vihara, my heart is filled with peace and joy. Even Mahatma Gandhi was a great admirer of her music. I congratulate Allu Aravind, Rockline Venkatesh, and Bunny Vas for taking up this wonderful project. This is a truly special film in your production journey,” he said.
Kamal backs Anirudh’s musical journey
Speaking at the same event, Kamal drew parallels between the impact certain films had on the careers of celebrated filmmakers and the potential significance of the MS Subbulakshmi biopic for Anirudh.
“His career’s trajectory will change with this film, just like Balachandar sir faced that change with Arangetram (1973), and Sankarabharanam (1980) changed Viswanath sir’s career,” said Kamal Haasan.
Kamal Haasan went on to express his appreciation for the direction in which Anirudh’s career has been moving. The composer has become one of the most prominent names in contemporary Indian cinema, particularly through his work across Tamil, Telugu and Hindi projects.
He added, “I like the way he is traveling now, and how he is going further. So I am very glad that this is happening.”
The comments are particularly noteworthy given Kamal’s own association with Anirudh. The composer previously worked on Indian 2, the 2024 sequel to Kamal’s 1996 film Indian. Their collaboration brought Anirudh into one of the most significant franchises in Tamil cinema.
For the MS Subbulakshmi biopic, Anirudh reunites with Gowtam Tinnanuri after their previous collaborations. Jersey, the director’s acclaimed sports drama, featured Anirudh on music, while the two subsequently came together again for Kingdom.
Rashmika steps into the role of the legendary singer
The biopic places Rashmika Mandanna in the challenging role of MS Subbulakshmi, one of the most influential figures in Indian classical music. The singer’s career spanned several decades, during which she became internationally recognised for her contribution to Carnatic music and devotional music.
The film is expected to trace key aspects of her life and musical journey, with the project bringing together a major cast and crew to tell the story of an iconic cultural figure.
At the launch, Kamal Haasan also participated in the proceedings by giving the first clap for the film. His presence added significance to an event that formally marked the beginning of production.
The project is being produced by Allu Aravind, Rockline Venkatesh and Bunny Vas under their respective banners, Geetha Arts, Rockline Entertainments and Bunny Vas Works.
For Anirudh, the project represents a departure from the predominantly contemporary commercial soundscapes that have defined much of his recent filmography. A story centred on one of India’s most revered classical singers presents an opportunity to explore a very different musical canvas.
With Gowtam Tinnanuri at the helm and Rashmika taking on the central role, the MS Subbulakshmi biopic has already attracted attention for its combination of subject, cast and creative team. Kamal Haasan’s remarks at the launch have now added another talking point, particularly his belief that the project could become an important milestone in Anirudh’s evolving career.
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