By How Arya Unexpectedly Landed the Lead Role in ‘Boss Engira Baskaran’ Through an Unusual Lucky Draw Decision
Arya’s 2010 Tamil superhit ‘Boss Engira Baskaran‘ has made a grand return to theatres, following the recent trend of re-releasing classic films. This resurgence allows audiences to relive their favorite cinematic moments on the big screen. Directed by M. Rajesh and featuring Nayanthara and Santhanam in pivotal roles, the film is widely cherished for its witty humor, engaging screenplay, and memorable performances.
Upon its initial release, ‘Boss Engira Baskaran’ was met with widespread acclaim, particularly for its lighthearted narrative and impeccable comic timing. The film follows the story of Baskaran (played by Arya), an aimless yet lovable young man who navigates through life with charm and humor, with Santhanam providing additional comedic brilliance. The chemistry between Arya and Nayanthara, along with Rajesh’s signature style of storytelling, made the film an instant favorite among Tamil cinema enthusiasts. Even after more than a decade, it remains a beloved entertainer, making its return to theatres a moment of excitement for fans.
Interestingly, the casting of Arya in the titular role of Baskaran was not a straightforward decision but one influenced by sheer luck. During a press interaction with Vikatan, actor Jiiva shared an amusing behind-the-scenes anecdote about the film’s casting process. According to Jiiva, after the success of ‘Siva Manasula Sakthi’, director Rajesh initially considered collaborating with him again for another project. However, when it came to finalizing the lead actor for ‘Boss Engira Baskaran’, the film’s producer decided to take an unconventional approach.
Rather than making a direct casting choice, the producer wrote both Jiiva’s and Arya’s names on separate slips of paper and randomly drew one. As fate would have it, Arya’s name was picked, securing his role in the film. Jiiva humorously recalled this unexpected twist, jokingly saying, “Had I known about this earlier, I would have asked them to write my name on both slips! (laughs). But honestly, I’m happy for Arya. He truly deserved such a wonderful film.” This intriguing revelation adds an extra layer of fascination to the film’s history, showcasing how destiny played a role in shaping a blockbuster.
Beyond its interesting casting choice, ‘Boss Engira Baskaran’ owes much of its success to its outstanding performances. Arya’s effortless portrayal of the carefree yet endearing Baskaran won the hearts of the audience, while Nayanthara’s role as Chandrika, a confident and responsible woman, provided the perfect contrast to his character. However, it was Santhanam’s impeccable comedic timing and hilarious one-liners that became one of the film’s standout elements, leaving a lasting impact on Tamil cinema’s comedy genre.
Director Rajesh, known for his knack for comedy and entertaining narratives, delivered a film that was both humorous and heartwarming. His ability to blend humor with relatable characters made ‘Boss Engira Baskaran’ an instant hit. The film’s catchy songs, composed by Yuvan Shankar Raja, further contributed to its popularity, with tracks like “Bossu Bossu” and “Yaar Indha Saalai Oram” becoming fan favorites.
Now, over a decade later, the re-release of ‘Boss Engira Baskaran’ has reignited excitement among moviegoers. The film’s return to theatres has allowed fans to once again experience its humor and charm on the big screen, while also introducing a new generation to its comedic brilliance. As audiences continue to enjoy the laughter, nostalgia, and engaging storyline, the film’s enduring appeal proves why it remains one of Tamil cinema’s most cherished comedies.
With its re-release, ‘Boss Engira Baskaran’ not only revives fond memories but also serves as a testament to the timeless nature of well-crafted humor. Whether watching it for the first time or reliving its magic, the film continues to be a delightful experience for all.
