Filmmaker AR Murugadoss, who is gearing up for the release of his much awaited film ‘Madharaasi’ starring Sivakarthikeyan, has revealed that the film’s protagonist was originally pitched to Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan nearly a decade ago.
Speaking to Galatta Plus during the film’s promotional run, Murugadoss recalled how the idea for the central character came to him years before the script was fully developed.
“I just had the protagonist character written and I pitched it to Shah Rukh sir 7 years ago. He was really interested with the character. But after that, I had to do the follow-up process with no response from the other end. I too felt it would be futile just for him to keep approaching him,” said AR Murugadoss.
He then further explained, “ Back then, I only had the character…just an idea, not the full script. After watching the movie, you’ll realise what I meant by character. At that time, cinematographer Ravi K Chandran arranged a meeting for me with Shah Rukh. He was so sweet and said we’ll do the film. But the delay was very long, which is why it never materialised.”
Although the collaboration with Shah Rukh Khan did not materialize, AR Murugadoss went on to shape the script into what has now become ‘Madharaasi’. The director also teased that the film will blend elements of two of his most celebrated works, Ghajini and Thuppakki.
Produced by N Srilakshmi Prasad under the Sri Lakshmi Movies banner, ‘Madharaasi’ features a strong ensemble including Sivakarthikeyan, Biju Menon, Vikranth, and Shabeer Kallarakkal in pivotal roles. The technical crew brings together some of the industry’s best talents, with music by Anirudh Ravichander, cinematography by Sudeep Elamon, and editing by A Sreekar Prasad.
The film is scheduled for release on 5th September 2025, in multiple languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi. The Hindi version will be titled ‘Dil Madharaasi’. With AR Murugadoss promising a mix of emotional depth and high-octane action, Madharaasi is one of the years most anticipated pan-Indian release.
Sources: Hindustan Times, Cinema Express
