'Hard For Me To Get Tamil Films': Thaman Compares His Struggles With Anirudh’s Success

Music composer Thaman S has openly spoken about how difficult it is for him to get projects in Tamil cinema. He also compared his journey with that of fellow composer Anirudh Ravichander while sharing his thoughts. Thaman’s comments come at a time when he is enjoying praise for his work in Akhanda 2: Thaandavam, with the film’s music receiving a strong response from audiences.

In an interview with Suman TV News, Thaman addressed the contrast in opportunities available to him across industries. He said, “Anirudh (Ravichander) gets films easily in Telugu, but it is hard for me to get opportunities in Tamil films. The Tamil industry has stronger unity, which I feel is missing in the Telugu film industry.”

While acknowledging this disparity, Thaman

made it clear that competition within Telugu cinema does not bother him. He also pointed out that several composers earn significantly more in Telugu films than in their home industries, adding that some professionals approach the industry primarily from a financial perspective rather than out of creative or emotional attachment.

On the work front, Thaman recently composed the music for Akhanda 2: Thaandavam, headlined by Nandamuri Balakrishna. Directed by Boyapati Sreenu, the film is a sequel to the 2021 blockbuster Akhanda.

The story follows a high-stakes conflict involving an enemy nation planning mass destruction through a deadly virus. The threat escalates when Murali Krishna’s daughter Janani, a 16-year-old prodigy and DRDO scientist, creates a vaccine capable of stopping the disaster, placing her directly in danger. The responsibility of protecting her and safeguarding the country falls on her uncle, Akhanda Rudra Sikandar Aghora, who relies on his supernatural powers to confront the threat.

Thaman’s upcoming projects include The Raja Saab, starring Prabhas, as well as the Tamil film Idhayam Murali.

Meanwhile, Anirudh Ravichander is preparing for the release of Jana Nayagan, starring Thalapathy Vijay and directed by H. Vinoth. The film is being promoted as Vijay’s final appearance before stepping away from Tamil cinema.

Anirudh also has a packed slate ahead, with multiple releases expected in 2026. These include Rajinikanth’s Jailer 2, Shah Rukh Khan’s King, Nani’s The Paradise, among several other high-profile projects.