'Nayakan' changed into an iconic cult film for greater reasons than one. The 1987 film no longer only delivered together two legends of indian cinema - kamal haasan and mani ratnam - however also maintains to remain a touchstone for gangster dramas, inspiring a era of filmmakers with its genuine portrayal of the anti-hero archetype.

Thirty-eight years after 'Nayakan', which stormed into theatres and ran for more than two hundred days, Kamal and mani ratnam are returned with any other magnum opus: 'Thug existence'. 'Nayakan' turned into loosely based on the lifestyles of gangster Varadaraja Mudaliar, who dominated the slums of Mumbai's Dharavi.

The character played by using Kamal in 'Thug life', Rangaraya Sakthivel Naickar, has already brought about speculation approximately whether or not it's miles a sequel to 'Nayakan' because of its resemblance to the 1987 film's lead position, the filmmakers have remained tight-lipped approximately the plot. It will be discovered most effective on june five when the film hits theatres global.

"Never. We were very aware no longer to permit 'thug lifestyles' to bring even a color of 'Nayakan.' It's an entirely new global," Kamal said at an occasion selling the film.

'Nayakan' turned into no longer only a runaway success. It additionally showcased how talented film personalities, staying true to their own styles, could craft a movie that is both commercially viable and critically acclaimed for its craftsmanship.

Velu Naicker, the protagonist of 'Nayakan,' who transforms from a road fighter right into a full-blown gangster, rivaling and decimating the established dons in erstwhile bombay city, was a defining second in Mani Ratnam's movie profession. It catapulted Kamal to new heights in indian cinema.

The movie additionally featured the inimitable expertise of Ilaiyaraaja, whose 'Thenpandi cheemayile' continues to be hummed with the aid of millions. It's far and away considered one of Kamal's preferred numbers. Everytime he stocks the stage with the grasp, the tune is certain to be completed through them.

'Thug life' capabilities oscar Award-winning composer A. R. rahman and marks the comeback of playback singer Chinmayi to tamil cinema. She was "shadow banned" following her accusations of sexual harassment towards famed lyricist Vairamuthu.

The duo, who are close friends and family—Mani Ratnam's spouse Suhasini, a  actor and director, is Kamal's niece (from his eldest brother Charuhasan, additionally a  actor)—have constantly maintained that they might come together to make a movie when the time becomes right.

They came close to doing so in 2002, but things didot go well in the training session, and then Kamal introduced 'Virumaandi.' It became a gory village drama that spoke approximately of violence inside the southern components of tamil Nadu.

It was Mani Ratnam's epic film 'Ponniyin Selvan: 1' that introduced them together once more. Kamal lent his voice for the film's narration.

Even though they didn't paint together for almost four years, mani ratnam and Kamal's recognition for each other's artistry has handily grown.

The movie's identity—'Thug'' Lifestyles'—did cause consternation among Mani Ratnam's die-hard fanatics, because the ace director had continually given tamil names to his movies. mani ratnam himself solved the mystery by revealing that it was Kamal who gave the call, and he truly put his seal of approval.

"I felt 'Thug Lifestyles' became apt," mani ratnam said at one of the movie's promotional events. The director added that he felt the name might immediately connect with the brand-new era of moviegoers. "We're Gen Z; it felt right," he brought.

True to his vintage style, Kamal travelled the length and breadth of india to promote the movie and even landed in controversy over his declaration that tamil was the mother of Kannada. The movie now faces a boycott in Karnataka.

Kamal, who keeps that he has an extended manner to head as an artist, says 'Thug Lifestyles' might be one-of-a-kind from 'Nayakan' considering the fact that he has matured over the past 4 decades, with age instilling in him a deeper understanding of troubles and existence experiences sprucing his instincts.

Continually a "proud pupil" of cinema, Kamal said 'Thug Life' is a good film that will reflect present-day realities. "I'm no longer a box workplace pundit, but I understand this a lot. We've got an awesome film made, and I hope the target market celebrates it simply as tons," he delivered.

Bankrolled with the aid of Raaj Kamal Movies, madras Talkies, and red Large Pix, the movie was officially announced in november 2022 under the tentative identity 'Kamal Haasan 234,' with shooting taking place in chennai, Kanchipuram, Pondicherry, New Delhi, and elements of North India. The movie is set to launch in 3,000-plus monitors throughout the globe.

For 'Nayakan,' mani ratnam did meet Varadaraja Mudaliar, and what transpired at the meeting brought about the climax scene.

"We went to his house to meet him. His human beings gave me dosa and chutney while Varadaraja Mudaliar kept speaking about the police and his existence. When I finished eating, I got an idea on how 'Nayakan' needed to quit," mani ratnam had said in an interview, reminiscing approximately his reviews making the 1987 film.

An ever-learner, Kamal is no longer content with what he has done in lifestyles. "There is still a protracted manner to move, and what subjects isn't what you depart in the back of in phrases of wealth, however the legacy connected to your name," he stated in a promotional event.

Will 'Thug Life' be any other 'Nayakan' and encourage any other technology of filmmakers? The jury is still out.