The long-delayed action drama 'Karuppu', starring Suriya and Trisha Krishnan, is finally set to arrive in cinemas on 15 May after overcoming a last-minute setback that forced the cancellation of all shows scheduled for the previous day.
Directed by RJ Balaji, the film's release had been thrown into uncertainty just hours before its rollout, prompting widespread disappointment among fans.
On Thursday, the makers issued their first detailed public statement since confirming the revised release, thanking audiences for their support through what they described as an emotionally taxing phase. Suriya also shared a personal note on social media, expressing gratitude to viewers for their patience.
Makers thank fans after chaotic delay
The production team confirmed that 'Karuppu', with a runtime of 2 hours and 33 minutes, would hit screens worldwide from 9 am on 15 May, ending a tense 24-hour period marked by silence and confusion. In their note, the makers acknowledged the frustration caused by the sudden postponement and said the delay had taken a toll not only on viewers but on the entire crew.
They credited fans for consistently standing by the project with messages and encouragement, despite the absence of clarity. The team emphasised the emotional and physical strain behind the film's journey, describing 'Karuppu' as the result of years of work, investment and sleepless nights.
The statement also highlighted the deep connection the audience now shares with the film, adding that it belongs "as much to the audience as it does to the creators."
Suriya amplified the sentiment by posting new stills from the film on X, thanking supporters who continued to rally behind the project even as uncertainty loomed.
Leak concerns spark legal warning
Prior to the official announcement of the revised release time, industry chatter suggested that a few minutes of the film had been screened prematurely in certain theatres. Acting swiftly, the team issued a strong legal notice cautioning against piracy.
Advocate Vijayan Subramanian, representing Dream Warrior Pictures, warned that recording, sharing or uploading clips from 'Karuppu' on any platform would constitute copyright infringement under Indian law. The statement further cautioned that civil and criminal action would be taken against anyone involved in circulating leaked footage.
The Tamil version releases as 'Karuppu', while the Telugu-dubbed edition carries the title 'Veera Bhadrudu'.
Reflecting on the film's lengthy and obstacle-ridden production journey, RJ Balaji said he still did not have "a concrete answer to the current situation," adding that the producers were working tirelessly to overcome last-minute challenges.
"Dearest fans, I don't have a concrete answer to the current situation. Producers are doing their best to solve the hurdles. This film has always had hurdles, and somehow God has made us sail through all that and here we are after 32 months. This time as well, I have faith, complete faith, in him," he wrote in an earlier message.