Meesaya Murukku 2 puts Gana musicians at its heart

The 2017 film drew on Adhi's life; the sequel spans three periods, brings in a new father figure and follows a dancer's journey to Chennai.

Meesaya Murukku 2 moves beyond Hiphop Tamizha Adhi’s own journey to tell a wider story about the people who make music their livelihood. Speaking ahead of its September 25 release, the writer, director and star said the film follows musicians through their ambitions, setbacks and relationships, with Gana artistes and the experiences behind their songs occupying an important place in its world.

The difference from the first film matters to Adhi. Meesaya Murukku, released in 2017, drew on his life as a young musician. This new story is not another account of his rise. He described it as a story with a reach beyond one person’s biography, shaped by the lives of performers who carry their struggles into their music. For Gana musicians in particular, he said, songs can be both a record of what they have lived and the work that sustains them.

Hiphop Tamizha Adhi speaks about Meesaya Murukku 2 ahead of its release

That focus has been audible in the soundtrack rollout. Aura 10/10, Pappaali Pazhamey, Goindhamma, Adi Podi and Kalaivaniye have already introduced different sides of the film. Pappaali Pazhamey’s Gana energy offered an early glimpse of the musical world Adhi is discussing now, while Kalaivaniye placed a wedding at the centre of the later release. The songs have given audiences pieces of the story before the film itself arrives.

The Meesaya Murukku 2 cast sit together during the Chennai event

Adhi also spoke about a father character that runs through the film’s three time periods. Vivek played his father in the first Meesaya Murukku, and Adhi said nobody could take the late actor’s place. The new part required someone different, though, and he chose choreographer Baba Baskar. Adhi said Baba Baskar was hesitant at first but committed to the role, and he expects the performance to open up further acting opportunities for him.

A smiling speaker in a white shirt addresses the Meesaya Murukku 2 audience

Ketika Sharma plays Laila Singh, a dancer who comes from Punjab to Chennai. Music, dance, love and the pressure to make a life in the arts meet through that journey. Chaithra J Achar and Ramya Ranganathan are also among the film’s cast, alongside Harshath Khan, Karunaas, Nasser and Sha Ra. Adhi thanked Sundar C and Khushbu for supporting the film and the media for staying with his work, including through criticism, as he returned to cinema after a two-year world tour.

A speaker in a blue top and yellow patterned skirt at the Meesaya Murukku 2 microphone

A speaker in red addresses the Meesaya Murukku 2 audience

A speaker in a dark striped suit smiles at the Meesaya Murukku 2 event

A speaker in white and pink talks at the Meesaya Murukku 2 event

The promotional tour will take the team through Coimbatore, Madurai and Chennai before Meesaya Murukku 2 opens in cinemas on September 25.