At the success meet of Madha Gaja Raja, actor Vishal shared candid insights about the therapeutic nature of his work with director Sundar C, addressing recent concerns about his health while celebrating an unlikely box office triumph. The film, which released this Pongal after a twelve-year wait, has found significant success with family audiences according to trade reports.
Addressing the viral video that had sparked widespread concern about his health, Vishal revealed how deeply touched he was by the unexpected outpouring of support. “In front of a temple, a flower vendor asked me about my health. A woman on the road, wearing a blue dress, approached me with concern,” he shared, noting how the experience showed him a different side of public affection. “Even after 40 years, it’s not possible to know if people like you. But all over the world, everyone expected Vishal to come back well.”
The actor made a striking revelation about his choice of projects, particularly his collaborations with director Sundar C. “If I make a film with Sundar C, I will get well automatically. My health will be good. My mental health will be good. It is like medicine,” Vishal explained. He described their relationship as extending far beyond professional boundaries: “I will call Sundar C at 12 o’clock and tell him about the shooting tomorrow. I will take my cycle and come. I don’t have a car. I have a cycle. If I am asked to cook, I will go to his house and cook dosa. He will cook dosa for me.”
Addressing the media speculation about his health, Vishal made an earnest appeal for responsible journalism. “These are my friends for 19 years. They are real journalists,” he said about traditional media, before addressing today’s realism: “Journalism has changed. We don’t have to study and get an internship to become a journalist. It’s just an android phone and a mic.” He noted how negative content often drives more engagement: “If Vishal uploads a video of feeding 10 children, it won’t get views.”
The actor also shed light on the challenging realities of the film industry. “In this industry only 20% make it, 80% are trying to make it. They are eagerly waiting for an opportunity,” he reflected. “There are more talented and beautiful people than me, but there is no opportunity.”
Looking ahead, Vishal announced several projects in his pipeline, including collaborations with directors Gautham Menon, as well as Thupparivaalan 2. However, he emphasized his commitment to working with Sundar C: “I am waiting to work with Sundar C sir again. If he says, I will postpone everything and come the next day.”
The success meet took an unexpectedly moving turn when Vishal discussed the struggles behind Madha Gaja Raja’s release. “After 12 years, by God’s grace, we are all looking the same. People come to the theater in a crowd. God has said, wait, do other films. I will give you a date. He gave me a date,” he shared, reflecting on the film’s journey.
Concluding the event, Vishal acknowledged the unprecedented response to the film: “In the village, all the managers call me and say everyone is coming to watch. They are going to tear the screen. To that extent, the movie has reached. This is a train. It will not stop at any station. Once the family audience likes it, it will keep going.”
The success meet, coincidentally held on MGR’s 108th birth anniversary, seemed to mark not just the triumph of a long-delayed film, but also a personal victory for Vishal, who has emerged stronger from recent challenges, supported by industry friendships and public goodwill.