Atlee’s speech at the ‘Baththa’ audio launch became one of the event’s highlights as he spoke about the people who shaped his journey in cinema. The filmmaker began by remembering actor Vijay and the support he received from him at an important stage in his career. From Vijay’s continued encouragement to his role in Atlee taking up ‘Jawan,’ the director recalled several personal moments. He also spoke about young composer Sai Abhyankkar, Vijay Sethupathi’s role in bringing ‘Baththa’ to him, and why he believes the film can connect with audiences across generations.
Atlee credits Vijay for giving his career a major boost
Atlee said that while ‘Raja Rani’ gave him recognition, his back-to-back films with Vijay transformed his career. “I might have bought this shirt, this pair of trousers, and this watch with my hard work. But if it wasn’t for my brother, my Thalapathy, I wouldn’t have got the chance. I became known after ‘Raja Rani,’ but that man gave me a life, back to back, back to back,” he said. Recalling how Vijay encouraged him when Shah Rukh Khan approached him for ‘Jawan,’ Atlee added, “When Shah Rukh sir came to my office, Vijay anna told me, ‘I don’t know what you are going to do, but please make that film. Your life will change.’ And my life changed.” Atlee also said he was not praising Vijay in the hope of getting another opportunity, pointing out that Vijay has now become the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister.
Atlee says Vijay is creating a new generation of political awareness
Atlee also spoke about the change he believes Vijay’s political entry has created among younger people. “The next generation will be strong in politics. The only reason is Vijay anna. I am not speaking about politics. In my generation, I never saw the Assembly. But now, a five-year-old is watching the Assembly in the morning. I think Vijay anna is creating a strong generation. There is no denying that. Politics is for us. No one can influence us. We know what to do, and we will just do what is right for society,” he said. Atlee’s comments came as he reflected on the wider interest among younger audiences in Vijay’s political journey, before moving on to speak about the new generation of talent he is supporting in cinema.
Atlee says Sai Abhyankkar has a long musical journey ahead
Atlee also had words of encouragement for Sai Abhyankkar, who has composed the music for Baththa. The filmmaker revealed that he had initially been considering Anirudh or GV Prakash for Raaka before deciding to go with Sai. He said he discussed the idea with producer Maaran, who supported his decision. “’Raaka’ was Sai’s first film. You are God’s child, Sai. Stay humble. In an era that has had legends like Ilaiyaraaja sir, Harris sir, Yuvan sir, AR Rahman sir and Anirudh, Sai’s music will also stay for a long time. His music will blast in ‘Raaka’,” Atlee said. His comments highlighted the confidence he has in the young composer’s future.
Atlee reveals Vijay Sethupathi’s role in bringing ‘Baththa’ to him
Turning his attention to ‘Baththa,’ Atlee credited Vijay Sethupathi for making the project possible. According to the filmmaker, Sethupathi had initially considered giving the script to Vetri Maaran. However, after learning that the story was designed as a commercial film, Atlee stepped in. “Vijay Sethupathi initially thought of giving the script to Vetri Maaran. When he told me that it was a commercial film, I told him, ‘Don’t give it to him, I’ll do it.’ Thank you, Sethu anna. Without you, Baththa would not have happened,” he said. Atlee further praised the film and director Balaji Tharaneetharan for blending a strong human message with a commercial format. “Very few films have the power to remain meaningful even after generations. ‘Baththa’ is one such film. It has a message about humanity that fathers, mothers and children can all connect with.”
About ‘Baththa’
‘Baththa’ stars Vijay Sethupathi and Lijomol Jose in the lead roles, with Balaji Tharaneetharan directing the film. Sai Abhyankkar has composed the music, while Selva Kumar SK is the cinematographer and Kalaivanan R is the editor. Presented by Atlee, the film is set against an 1980s backdrop and is gearing up for its theatrical release on October 1.
