Boat Capsizes During Tamil Film Mandaadi Shoot, Equipment Worth ₹1 Crore Lost In Mishap

A major mishap occurred during the shoot of the Tamil film Mandaadi off the Ramanathapuram coast, when a boat carrying crew members and expensive filming equipment overturned mid-sequence. The incident

took place during the shooting of an intense sea scene involving actor Soori and director Mathimaaran Pugazhendhi’s team.

As per reports, the boat suddenly capsized during filming, throwing several technicians and two cinematographers into the water. Fortunately, nearby fishermen responded swiftly, rescuing them before any serious harm occurred. While no casualties were reported, the team suffered a massive loss, with filming gear estimated to be worth around Rs 1 crore sinking in the accident, reports India Today.

Authorities have temporarily halted the shoot and launched an investigation into the cause. The Marine Police are reportedly examining whether adequate safety protocols were followed during the production.

Mandaadi is an upcoming Indian Tamil-language sports action drama written and directed by Mathimaaran Pugazhendhi of Selfie (2022) fame. The film is produced by Elred Kumar under the banner of RS Infotainment, with acclaimed filmmaker Vetrimaaran serving as the creative producer.

The project marks another collaboration between actor Soori and director Mathimaaran after Rocky. Soori plays the titular role, with Mahima Nambiar starring as the female lead. The film also features Telugu actor Suhas as the antagonist, alongside Sathyaraj, Achyuth Kumar, Sachana Namidass, and Ravindra Vijay in pivotal roles.

Announced in January 2025 under the tentative title Soori’s Next, the film’s official title Mandaadi was unveiled in April 2025. The title, derived from a term used in Ramanathapuram and Thoothukudi, refers to a skilled expert who leads a fishing expedition. The technical team includes music composer G. V. Prakash Kumar, cinematographer S. R. Kathir, editor Pradeep E. Ragav, and stunt choreographer Peter Hein.

Principal photography began in early 2025, with major portions being shot in Thondi. A large set was constructed to depict a vibrant boat competition central to the film’s narrative. Shot simultaneously in Tamil and Telugu, Mandaadi is currently in production, though filming is temporarily paused following a recent on-set boat accident off the Ramanathapuram coast.