The trailer launch event for the upcoming film RPM served a dual purpose: introducing the crime suspense thriller and commemorating the first death anniversary of its lead actor, the late Daniel Balaji. His mother, Rajalakshmi, attended as the chief guest, releasing the trailer for what is noted as her son’s final film appearance. Director Prasad Prabhakar and producer Kalpana Raghavendar shared memories of working with the actor.
“There is no substitute for artists like Daniel Balaji who have earned a place in people’s hearts,” said producer Kalpana Raghavendar, who also acts in the film under her production banner Golden Reel International Production. She explained the timing of the event, stating, “We considered this the best day to release the trailer for our film RPM, as today marks one year since actor Daniel Balaji passed away.” Kalpana recounted interactions highlighting his depth, recalling a request for her to sing a specific song by M.S. Viswanathan and P. Susheela, and his immediate grasp of performance nuances. She also shared a poignant detail: “While working on this film, he spent a lot of time talking with co-actors Easwar Karthik, Sarukesh, Babu, and Muthu. He told them that this might be his last film, and that he planned to fully engage in spirituality afterwards.”
Director Prasad Prabhakar, who also co-produces via Prasad Prabhakar Production, spoke about Daniel Balaji’s comprehensive understanding of filmmaking. “There’s a director within him, a writer within him, a production controller within him… he embodies everything related to cinema. You couldn’t fool him,” Prasad observed. He noted Daniel Balaji’s meticulous approach: “For every scene, he would ask for the complete background context. He would inquire about the required emotional state to internalize the character’s feelings.” Prasad added, reflecting on the loss, “Some people’s absence makes their presence felt more strongly. We talk more about them when they are not here. Daniel Balaji was such a person.”
Daniel Balaji’s mother, Rajalakshmi, shared personal memories, recalling his deep religious devotion from childhood. She spoke of his initial reluctance to enter acting and his father’s eventual acceptance after seeing his performance in Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu. Rajalakshmi also recounted conversations shortly before his passing, where he seemed aware his time was short, saying, “‘I won’t be here, will I!’… The pain that he is gone while I am still here remains in my heart.” She requested the audience, “This is a film he acted in. Everyone should watch it and bless him.”
RPM features a cast including Kovai Sarala, Y.G. Mahendran, Ilavarasu, Devadarshini, Sunil Sukatha, and marks the debut of Easwar Krishna and Daya Prasad Prabhakar. Producer Kalpana noted Daniel Balaji’s supportive nature towards the newcomers, recounting how he eased their nervousness on set. “He told them not to be afraid while acting, saying, ‘When I am acting here, I am not Daniel Balaji, only the character’. The encouragement he gave the new artists gave me confidence too,” she said.
The technical team includes cinematographer Aniyan Chithrasala, music composer J. Sebastian Rozario, editor Antony, and stunt choreographer Stunner Sam. Sony Pictures International is set to distribute the film pan-India.
Guest speaker Bhaskaran, an educator and entrepreneur, also addressed the gathering, reflecting on the role of Tamil cinema in language preservation among the diaspora, while appealing for reduced on-screen violence.
The film RPM is planned for release during the upcoming summer holidays, presented as the final work of Daniel Balaji.