By R Madhavan Recalls Offending Mani Ratnam After Refusing Siddharth’s Role in Aayitha Ezhuthu: “Security Didn’t Recognize Me”
Actor and filmmaker R. Madhavan has frequently acknowledged the vital role that acclaimed director Mani Ratnam played in shaping his cinematic journey. It was Mani Ratnam’s 2000 Tamil film Alaipayuthey that gave Madhavan his breakthrough, establishing him as a charming romantic hero in the industry. Though Madhavan later branched out into action-oriented roles with films like Run, it was Ratnam who initially recognized his potential and provided him with a strong foundation in the film world.
In a recent interview with India TV, Madhavan opened up about an incident that briefly strained his relationship with the filmmaker. The actor recalled a moment when he unintentionally offended Mani Ratnam during the casting of the 2004 film Aayitha Ezhuthu. While Ratnam had originally envisioned Madhavan for the role that eventually went to Siddharth, the actor insisted on playing the character of Inba, a rugged and morally complex figure.
Madhavan said that after listening to the script, he told Mani Ratnam he believed Inba was the strongest role in the film and that the other characters might be forgotten over time. This statement did not sit well with the director and reportedly upset him. However, Madhavan remained determined to prove himself and secure the part.
To convince Mani Ratnam of his suitability for the role, Madhavan underwent a complete physical and emotional transformation. Over the course of a month, he shaved his head, deliberately tanned his skin by playing golf without sunscreen, and made himself completely unrecognizable. He recounted how, when he visited Ratnam’s office in this new look, even the security guards failed to recognize him and initially refused to let him in.
Once inside, Madhavan’s transformation startled Ratnam. The director did not realize it was the actor until Madhavan smiled at him. Impressed by his dedication and commitment, Mani Ratnam ultimately agreed to cast him as Inba. The role showcased a new side of Madhavan’s acting range — intense, gritty, and emotionally detached. To prepare for the role, Madhavan drew inspiration from the hunting style of lions, noting their calm and calculated movements even during moments of intense aggression. This helped him shape Inba’s personality — a man capable of violence but devoid of emotional attachment.
He explained that many of his successful films were being credited to Mani Ratnam’s influence, and he wanted to prove that he could succeed on his own terms. “I wanted to create a path of my own… find my own route,” he shared.
Following Aayitha Ezhuthu, Madhavan and Mani Ratnam continued to collaborate on notable projects like Kannathil Muthamittal and Guru, both of which received critical acclaim. However, after the success of Guru, Madhavan felt the need to chart his own course. He explained that many of his successful films were being credited to Mani Ratnam’s influence, and he wanted to prove that he could succeed on his own terms. “I wanted to create a path of my own… find my own route,” he shared.
Now, Madhavan is preparing for the release of his next project Test, which will premiere on OTT. The film also stars Siddharth, Meera Jasmine, and Nayanthara, generating significant buzz among fans. In addition, he will be seen in a pivotal role in Kesari Chapter 2, slated for release on April 18.
On the other side, Mani Ratnam’s last release was the epic historical drama Ponniyin Selvan 2, which garnered positive reviews and performed exceptionally well at the box office. Looking ahead, Ratnam is set to collaborate with the legendary Kamal Haasan for the much-anticipated film Thug Life.
Both Madhavan and Mani Ratnam continue to evolve in their careers, but the foundation of respect and creative synergy between them remains an inspiring chapter in Indian cinema.
