RJ Balaji blows the air on ‘Karuppu’ comments, says Vijay ‘opened first door’ but credits Suriya for film’s final success

Filmmaker RJ Balaji has addressed the controversy surrounding his comments on the journey of Suriya’s latest star ‘Karuppu’. The discussion started after social media users felt that his statements focused more on Vijay than on Suriya, who ultimately led the film. He explained that the goal was to describe how the text moves through different stages before reaching its final form. According to him, misreading the online narrative has led to unnecessary comparisons between the actors.

The ‘Karuppu’ director explains how the project first took shape

In a recent fan interaction held by Cineulagam, Balaji detailed how the idea of ​​’Karuppu’ initially came about. The first version of the script was narrated to Vijay, which indirectly helped in opening up more career opportunities, he said.He explained the sequence of events behind the development of the project.“I initially narrated this film to Vijay sir and told him that the entire journey began with him.”He added that this early narrative was not part of the final collaboration but still played an important role in shaping his next steps as a director.

The early narrative led to wider industry reach

RJ Balaji further explained that the connection created through Vijay’s initial hearing for the script helped him reach out to new production circles.

He said this was a turning point that eventually led him to submit the story to the Syria team.“I was able to reach Surya sir mainly because Vijay sir had already heard this story.”He added that the producers who subsequently approached him were already aware of the previous novel, which boosted interest in the project. This, in his opinion, created a natural progression from one stage of development to another.

Balaji credits Suriya with shaping the final film

While describing the early journey, Balaji explained that the completed film and its success belonged to Syria.

He stressed that the final version of Karuppu and its audience reception were entirely shaped by Surya’s participation.“For that first door to open, talking to Mr. Vijay became the reason. Somewhere in my mind and heart, that holds a very special place.”“We have not done a film together. Suriya sir is the one who actually made the film. Everything I have in my life today – the love I am receiving, this life-changing moment – is because I made a film with Suriya sir.

But the first door opened because people asked about the story I had narrated earlier of Vijay sir.

Meet Vijay and clarify his reactions

Balaji also spoke about meeting Vijay after the success of ‘Karuppu’. He described the interaction as emotionally significant and said it felt like completing a personal cycle.“Like the puja we did for Karuppu at Masani Amman Temple, I felt the journey would not be complete unless I came back to express my gratitude. That’s why I came back.”Regarding Vijay’s reaction, he said: “He said it was a good script and he knew it would end well.”‘Karuppu’ also features Trisha, Swasika, Supreeth Reddy, Indrans and Shivada in the lead roles. The film is now streaming on OTT.