Director Ram has stated that his latest film, Paranthu Po, marks the first time in his career he has experienced a commercial “HIT,” a success he attributes to positive reviews and a strong audience connection. The film, a feel-good entertainer starring Mirchi Shiva and Grace Antony, has seen an increase in screen counts since its release.
Speaking at a gathering to acknowledge the film’s performance, Ram reflected on the unique reception. “So far in my career, I have never seen such a commercial success. After screenings, people used to call my films ‘classics’ or ‘masterpieces’, but this is the first time I’ve heard the word ‘HIT’,” he said. He also noted the initial skepticism surrounding the project, stating, “Many distributors gave wrong judgments, especially about my pairing with Shiva. But when I wrote the script, I believed it would work theatrically.”
This sentiment was echoed by lead actor Mirchi Shiva, who highlighted the role of early critical response. “I was elated when the media clapped and laughed for many scenes. That’s when we realized — the press is the first audience, and their approval means everything,” Shiva remarked. “Director Ram is returning after six years and theatres gave him a warm welcome.”
The film’s genre was a deliberate choice, according to Ram, who credited Pradeep Milroy Peter of Jio Hotstar for guiding the project’s tone. “He’s the one who locked the genre, ‘Happy and Feel-Good’. Otherwise, I’d still be creating multiple storylines,” Ram stated. Pradeep confirmed this, adding that the casting of Shiva was a spontaneous decision that proved effective.
The film marks the Tamil debut for actress Grace Antony, who described the experience as a dream come true. “My passion kept me going — and I’m glad my dream came true with my Tamil debut through Ram sir’s film,” she said.
Lyricist Madhan Karky commented on the creative process, noting, “Director Ram sir changed my style, and we tried breaking clichés. Usually, we all stick to lyrical grammar, but here we broke the rules and blended lyrics with visuals.”
Paranthu Po continues its theatrical run.