"Mani Ratnam on Kamal Haasan in 'Thug Life': '50% of My Work is Done'."

"Mani Ratnam on Kamal Haasan in 'Thug Life': '50% of My Work is Done'."

            Mani Ratnam Praises Kamal Haasan’s Acting in ‘Thug Life’: “50% Burden on the Director is Relieved”
Historic Collaboration Reunites After 38 Years; ‘Jinguchaa’ Single Launched in Grand Event

Chennai, April 18, 2025

The much-anticipated ‘Thug Life’, starring Kamal Haasan and directed by Mani Ratnam, took its first major step towards release with the grand launch of its first single, ‘Jinguchaa’, composed by the legendary A.R. Rahman.

The event, held at Chennai’s Kalaivanar Arangam, was a star-studded affair, bringing together icons of Indian cinema and generating massive excitement for what is poised to be one of the biggest films of 2025.

The project marks the long-awaited reunion of Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam after their 1987 classic ‘Nayakan’, widely regarded as one of the greatest Indian films ever made. Speaking at the event, Mani Ratnam heaped praise on Kamal Haasan’s performance, stating, “When an actor like Kamal Haasan is in front of the camera, 50% of the director’s burden is relieved. He brings so much depth and precision to his craft that it elevates the entire film.”

A Night of Nostalgia and Celebration

The launch event was attended by a host of celebrities, including Silambarasan TR, Trisha Krishnan, Ashok Selvan, Joju George, Abhirami, and cinematographer Ravi K. Chandran, among others. The presence of A.R. Rahman, who has composed the music for the film, added to the grandeur of the evening.

Kamal Haasan: “The Mistake Was Ours”

Kamal Haasan, who is also producing the film under his banner Raaj Kamal Films International, expressed his excitement about the project, calling it “the kind of cinema I’d like to see.”

Reflecting on his long gap with Mani Ratnam, he said, “Mani and I used to sit on a parked scooter on Eldams Road in Alwarpet, discussing our dreams of making movies. Nothing has changed since then. We dreamt big, but we were constricted by the market and budget. The reason we didn’t collaborate after ‘Nayakan’… the mistake was ours. The reason we’re back together now is because of you—the audience.”

His emotional speech highlighted the deep creative bond between the two legends and their shared vision for ‘Thug Life’.

Mani Ratnam on Directing Kamal Haasan Again

Mani Ratnam, known for his masterful storytelling in films like ‘Roja’, ‘Bombay’, ‘Dil Se’, and ‘Ponniyin Selvan’, spoke about the unique experience of working with Kamal Haasan after nearly four decades.

“Kamal is an actor who doesn’t just perform—he lives the character. There’s a certain magic that happens when he’s in front of the camera. As a director, half of your work is done because he brings so much to the table—his understanding of the craft, his improvisations, and his sheer brilliance.”

AR Rahman, Mani Ratnam, Kamal Haasan and Silambarasan TR from the launch of the first single from ‘Thug Life’ in Chennai, April 18, 2025.

He also hinted that ‘Thug Life’ would be a hard-hitting, unconventional film, much like their previous collaboration.

A.R. Rahman’s Musical Brilliance: ‘Jinguchaa’ Unveiled

The highlight of the evening was the launch of ‘Jinguchaa’, the first single from the film. Rahman, who has previously collaborated with both Kamal Haasan (‘Hey Ram’, ‘Vishwaroopam’) and Mani Ratnam (countless classics), described the song as “a mix of raw energy and soulful depth, much like the film itself.”

Ravi K Chandran, Abhirami, Mani Ratnam, AR Rahman, Kamal Haasan, Silambarasan TR, Trisha Krishnan, Ashok Selvan and Joju George from the launch of the first single from ‘Thug Life’ in Chennai, April 18, 2025.

While details about the song’s genre and singers were kept under wraps, early reactions suggest it is a powerful, rhythm-driven track that sets the tone for the film.

‘Thug Life’: What We Know So Far

Director: Mani Ratnam

Starring: Kamal Haasan, Trisha Krishnan, Silambarasan TR, Ashok Selvan, Joju George

Music: A.R. Rahman

Cinematography: Ravi K. Chandran

Production: Raaj Kamal Films International, Madras Talkies

Release Date: June 5, 2025

Plot Speculations

While the exact storyline remains tightly guarded, sources suggest that ‘Thug Life’ could be a gangster drama or a socio-political thriller, drawing parallels to ‘Nayakan’ but with a contemporary twist.

Kamal Haasan’s role is rumored to be that of a charismatic yet ruthless underworld figure, while Trisha Krishnan is said to play a pivotal character with shades of grey.

Industry Reactions & Expectations

The reunion of Kamal Haasan, Mani Ratnam, and A.R. Rahman has sent waves of excitement across the film industry.

Silambarasan TR, who is also part of the film, called it “a dream project” and praised Kamal Haasan’s dedication.

Trisha Krishnan shared her excitement about working with the legends, calling it “a career-defining experience.”

Ashok Selvan and Joju George, who play key supporting roles, expressed their gratitude for being part of such a prestigious project.

Why ‘Thug Life’ is One of the Most Awaited Films of 2025

The Return of a Legendary Trio – Kamal Haasan, Mani Ratnam, and A.R. Rahman together after decades.

Kamal Haasan in a Power-Packed Role – Fans are eager to see him in another intense, layered performance.

Mani Ratnam’s Signature Storytelling – Known for blending realism with high drama, his direction is expected to elevate the film.

A.R. Rahman’s Musical Magic – The soundtrack is already generating massive buzz.

Star-Studded Cast – With Trisha, STR, and others, the film promises powerhouse performances.

Final Thoughts

The launch of ‘Jinguchaa’ has set the stage for what could be one of the most iconic films in Indian cinema. With Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam reuniting after 38 years, ‘Thug Life’ is not just a movie—it’s a cultural moment.

As Kamal Haasan rightly said, “This film is made with love for a discerning audience.” And if the first glimpse is anything to go by, ‘Thug Life’ is set to redefine cinematic brilliance when it releases on June 5, 2025.

Stay tuned for more updates on ‘Thug Life’—the film that’s bringing together legends for an unforgettable experience! 🎥🔥

Thug Life' Musical Launch – Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam Reunite

On April 18, 2025, Chennai witnessed the grand musical launch of 'Thug Life,' marking the reunion of cinematic legends Kamal Haasan and director Mani Ratnam after their iconic collaboration in 'Nayakan' (1987). The event featured the release of the film's first single, "Jinguchaa," composed by A.R. Rahman. The song, characterized by its vibrant beats and catchy lyrics, has already garnered significant attention online.​

Kamal Haasan expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "Thug Life is the kind of cinema I’d like to see... I'm glad that I got to act and produce it too." The film boasts a stellar cast, including Silambarasan TR, Trisha Krishnan, and Joju George, and is set for a theatrical release on June 5, 2025.​