Karuppu Director Reveals Film Was Originally Written For Vijay, Says His Reasons To Back Out Were ‘Justified’

Filmmaker RJ Balaji has opened up about the journey behind his latest film Karuppu, starring Suriya and Trisha Krishnan, which has emerged as a major box office success. In an exclusive conversation with The Hollywood Reporter India, RJ Balaji revealed that the film was originally written with actor-turned-politician Vijay in mind, intended as his final screen appearance before entering politics. He said he had held two to three discussions with Vijay over the project, during which they also spoke about Vijay’s political plans and the idea of choosing a fitting farewell film.

RJ Balaji On Karuppu Discussions With Vijay

RJ Balaji told Hollywood Reporter India that Karuppu was originally written for Vijay. “This was supposed to be his last film, so we had two or three meetings which went

on for some time, discussing things like him entering politics and taking a call as to which film to make as his last film,” he said.

However, Vijay eventually backed out from the project. Balaji said he accepted the decision respectfully, and that he understood and appreciated Vijay’s reasons. “I felt his reasons were justified, I said, ‘Sir, I absolutely respect your decision, thank you so much.’ because by that time I had narrated two films to him when he asked me if I had something. I thought this was a big respect he gave for my work and my creativity,” he said.

Following Vijay’s exit, the project eventually went to Suriya. Balaji explained that the producers encouraged him to present the film to Suriya, who responded positively to the concept and also suggested changes that helped shape the final version of the script.

RJ Balaji also expressed gratitude toward Vijay in the film’s opening credits, saying that the questions Vijay had asked during earlier narrations helped him improve the script significantly, even though he ultimately did not do the film. He further shared that Vijay, who is now serving as Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister, personally reached out to congratulate the team after the film’s release.

About Karuppu

Karuppu blends fantasy, action and courtroom drama with a social angle. The story revolves around corrupt lawyers exploiting vulnerable people, before Karuppusamy — a deity associated with justice — takes human form to protect the oppressed and restore balance.

Apart from Suriya and Trisha, the film also stars Indrans, Natty Subramaniam, Swasika, Sshivada, Anagha Maaya Ravi and Supreeth Reddy in key roles. RJ Balaji has also acted in the film and plays the antagonist. The film was released in theatres on May 15.