logo
Vairamuthu is a good poet, not good human: Tamil composer backs singer Chinmayi

Vairamuthu is a good poet, not good human: Tamil composer backs singer Chinmayi

India Today11-06-2025
Playback singer Chinmayi Sripada has been at the receiving end of trolling and hate after she accused legendary lyricist and poet Vairamuthu of sexual misconduct in 2018 during the #MeToo movement. Years later, veteran composer, director and lyricist Gangai Amaran, brother of Ilaiyaraaja, extended his support to her and called his long-time friend Vairamuthu a 'not so good human being'.In an interview with Galatta, Gangai Amaran said, "When I heard about the event that they organised for her, I immediately wanted to attend." Over the years, Chinmayi has spoken up several times and called out celebrities and politicians for platforming Vairamuthu, who has nearly 17 complaints against him from women - some anonymous and some not.advertisementHe then addressed her sexual harassment claims against Vairamuthu and expressed his support. "She struggled in life to become a playback singer that she is today. But, he [Vairamuthu] was made out to be a good person, while everyone made her the villain [for opening up]. No one supported her during this time," he said.
Gangai Amaran also emphasised that it is important to stand by a woman who exposes injustice. "If a woman talks about injustice happening to her, we should stand with her. I condemn those people who don't and the political parties who support the man," he added.For the unversed, Gangai Amaran, Ilaiyaraaja and Vairamuthu have been friends for years and worked on many iconic projects in Tamil cinema. Amaran also talked about his relationship with Vairamuthu and stated, "Just because we are friends, it doesn't mean we cannot question when he does something wrong. Can I ask Chinmayi not to talk about him because he is my friend?"advertisementHe then added, "He is a good poet, there is no doubt about that, but he is not a good person."In 2018, Chinmayi Sripada named lyricist Vairamuthu - a legend in Tamil industry with great political connections - as her perpetrator. She said that the lyricist asked her to 'co-operate' in 2005. She levelled these allegations as she spearheaded Tamil cinema's #MeToo movement.Vairamuthu denied the allegations, but Chinmayi has been facing a ban in the Tamil film industry.Trending Reel
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

This 2 hours 37 minute crime thriller will keep you hooked till the end, beats Drishyam, Kahaani in climax, has 7.3 IMDb rating, name is…, lead actors are…
This 2 hours 37 minute crime thriller will keep you hooked till the end, beats Drishyam, Kahaani in climax, has 7.3 IMDb rating, name is…, lead actors are…

India.com

timean hour ago

  • India.com

This 2 hours 37 minute crime thriller will keep you hooked till the end, beats Drishyam, Kahaani in climax, has 7.3 IMDb rating, name is…, lead actors are…

What begins as a routine investigation slowly spirals into a psychological labyrinth, where nothing is what it seems, and everyone has something to hide. What is 'identity' all about? If your Sunday plan involves a blanket, a screen, and some serious brain-jogging drama, Identity might just be your pick. Released in January 2025, this Malayalam-language crime thriller has already made waves at the box office and is now creating buzz on OTT. With an IMDb rating of 7.3, Identity isn't just another mystery; it's a full-blown cinematic rollercoaster. A sketch artist, a cop, and a murder that doesn't add up At the heart of Identity is an unusual duo, a police officer and a sketch artist, who are trying to crack a complex murder case. But the deeper they dig, the murkier it gets. What seems like a straightforward homicide quickly unravels into a deep conspiracy, testing their instincts and dragging them through a maze of lies, betrayal, and unexpected truths. The suspense never lets go. The film is packed with cliffhangers and sharp turns that leave you second-guessing every move. From fast-paced car chases to intense action sequences aboard an aeroplane, Identity balances emotional depth with adrenaline-pumping moments. It's the kind of story that keeps your eyes wide open and fingers clenched until the final frame. Where can you watch it? Clocking in at 2 hours and 37 minutes, Identity is now streaming on ZEE5 in multiple languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada. Directed and written by Anas Khan and Akhil Paul, the film stars Trisha Krishnan, Tovino Thomas, and Gopika Ramesh in powerful lead roles. If you love your thrillers dark, sharp, and unpredictable, Identity is your next binge.

Exclusive: Eros clears stand on Raanjhanaa's AI-altered re-release
Exclusive: Eros clears stand on Raanjhanaa's AI-altered re-release

Time of India

time2 hours ago

  • Time of India

Exclusive: Eros clears stand on Raanjhanaa's AI-altered re-release

Poster of Raanjhaana Raanjhanaa, which had hit the screens in 2013, is being re-released in Tamil Nadu with an altered AI generated ending, possibly a first for the industry. While director Aanand L Rai has slammed the move, producer Eros International Media Limited describes this as a "creative reimagining" and says that the director's comments are an attempt 'to distract public and industry attention from serious and ongoing legal matters. ' The Tamil version of the unrequited romance drama, starring Dhanush and Sonam Kapoor, was titled Ambikapathy. Reportedly, Eros International has sold the AI-edited version of the film to a Tamil Nadu-based distributor. "The timeless love story returns to the big screen! #Ambikapathy re-releasing in theatres from August 1st... A new ending powered by AI," Upswing Entertainment said while making the announcement earlier this month. Eros International Media Limited issued a statement to clear their stand. Excerpts from statement: We at Eros International Media Limited categorically reject and strongly object to the unfounded and sensationalist remarks made by Mr Aanand L. Rai regarding the AI-enhanced re-release of Raanjhanaa. These remarks are not only factually incorrect and misleading, but appear to be a deliberate negative PR stunt designed to distract public and industry attention from serious and ongoing legal matters concerning Mr Rai and Colour Yellow Productions Pvt. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like New Launch at Godrej Sector 12 | Luxurious 3 BHK + S & 4 BHK Homes @₹2.90 Cr* Godrej Majesty Learn More Undo Ltd. We view Mr Rai's public outburst, especially timed just days after these disclosures, as a conscious attempt to shift focus away from the legal and governance issues he currently faces. It is unfortunate that a filmmaker of his stature would attempt to conflate legal accountability with creative victimhood. It would be best if Mr Rai respectfully acknowledges the ownership of IP as per law of the land and his written undertakings, rather than use media unfairly as a platform to promote himself and thrive on unwarranted sensationalism. The re-release of Raanjhanaa in the Tamil market is part of Eros International's broader strategy to refresh and reintroduce classic cinematic works to newer audiences in regional markets. Over a decade since its original release, the film continues to resonate deeply, and the reinterpretation of its ending aims to extend its emotional legacy and relevance. This is a creative reimagining, not a replacement, and is consistent with global industry practices including anniversary editions, alternate cuts, and modernised remasters. We are the sole and exclusive copyright holder and producer of Raanjhanaa, and are fully entitled, both legally and ethically, to adapt and re-release the film. This includes re-imagining certain elements using advanced tools such as generative AI to reach newer audiences while preserving the original's artistic soul. Contrary to the claims of "artistic vandalism", our re-release is a respectful creative reinterpretation—clearly labelled and separate from the original version—offered as an addition to, not a replacement of, the original. Such practices are common in global cinema, and reflect our long-standing commitment to innovation, audience engagement, and cultural preservation. We reserve all our rights and intend to take all appropriate legal and remedial action to protect our reputation, brand equity, and commercial interests. It is important to bring to light that Eros has initiated legal proceedings before the Hon'ble National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), Mumbai Bench, under Sections 241 and 242 of the Companies Act, 2013 against Colour Yellow Productions Pvt. Ltd., and its directors, Mr. Aanand L. Rai and Mrs. Yogita Rai. The allegations include serious acts of mismanagement, lack of transparency in financial disclosures, unauthorised and related-party transactions without board approvals. On June 24, 2025, the Tribunal acknowledged these concerns and has ordered interim relief in favour of Eros. Eros remains committed to celebrating Indian cinema, nurturing talent, and embracing technology responsibly. We urge the media and our audiences to see this situation in the light of facts, law, and the spirit of creative evolution.

Sivakarthikeyan's tribute to Na. Muthukumar moves fans at ‘Ananda Yaazhai' event, says, 'his contribution to Tamil cinema was immense'
Sivakarthikeyan's tribute to Na. Muthukumar moves fans at ‘Ananda Yaazhai' event, says, 'his contribution to Tamil cinema was immense'

Time of India

time2 hours ago

  • Time of India

Sivakarthikeyan's tribute to Na. Muthukumar moves fans at ‘Ananda Yaazhai' event, says, 'his contribution to Tamil cinema was immense'

In Chennai, a grand musical event titled 'Ananda Yaazhai' was held in memory of the late lyricist Na. Muthukumar . Actor Sivakarthikeyan participated as the special guest at the event, which was attended by various celebrities from Tamil cinema. He arrived in Chennai straight after finishing the shooting of 'Parasakthi' in Pollachi and addressed the event paying tribute to Na. Muthukumar . He also shared that he donated the money he received for the songs he wrote to Muthukumar's family. Sivakarthikeyan's support to Na Muthukumar's family Speaking at the event, Sivakarthikeyan praised Na. Muthukumar as his adopted teacher. 'When I first wrote a song, it was just a fun song. But I felt that I had to do that job responsibly. I also asked for a salary for it. This is not a favor, it is a duty," he said. His words touched the hearts of those present at the event. Sivakarthikeyan hails Na Muthukumar Sivakarthikeyan further said, 'Na. Muthukumar has given his Tamil and poetry to everyone in this film industry. This program is a return to him. His contribution to Tamil cinema was immense. The question arises whether there will ever be another writer like him. His songs are still alive today. Now that Na. Muthukumar is gone, I have to start writing songs myself. Every time I start writing, I listen to two of his songs,' he said, sharing his son's desire to write songs. ' Sivakarthikeyan's speech was the highlight of the event. Na Muthukumar's legacy Lyricist Na. Muthukumar holds a unique place in Tamil film music. His songs for many films, including 'Veyil', 'Thuppakki', 'Thanga Meengal', 'Aadukalam', and 'Dharmadurai' were well received. His songs effectively reflect the beauty of Tamil and the feelings of life. He is not only a great poet, but also a creator of an indelible cultural asset in the minds of the people. He has received the National Award and State Awards twice.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store