Filmmaker RJ Balaji recently revealed that he had initially pitched Karuppu to Vijay as the actor’s final film before his entry into politics. However, the statement did not go down well with Suriya’s fans.
The controversy intensified after Balaji reiterated the same while speaking about his meeting with Vijay.
Adding fuel to the fire, the film’s editor R Kalaivanan said in an interview that Karuppu would have been “even more explosive” had Vijay starred in it.
Amid the backlash against his team, Suriya has now shared a cryptic note about love and kindness.
On Thursday, Suriya posted a minimalist note on his Instagram story that read: “Lead with love. Stay kind. Stay generous.”
Though the actor did not mention the context, fans believe the timing of the post suggests that he was indirectly referring to the ongoing controversy around Karuppu.
A fan page shared a screenshot of the story on X and wrote, “Looks like he is watching everything.” Another fan commented, “Whatever Suriya says, I’ll listen. Even if he tells me to leave Twitter, I’ll go.”
RJ Balaji On Vijay Being The First Choice
In an interview with THR India, RJ Balaji revealed that Karuppu was initially planned as Vijay’s final film.
Speaking about Vijay stepping away from the project, Balaji said, “I felt his reasons were justified. I told him, ‘Sir, I absolutely respect your decision. Thank you so much.’ By then, I had already narrated two stories to him after he asked me if I had something suitable. I considered that itself a huge sign of respect for my work and creativity.”
Later, after meeting Vijay in person, Balaji wrote on X: “With the man who started it all for #Karuppu!!! Wow…! Feels unreal to meet him now as the honourable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu!!! Same love, warmth, kindness and calmness…!!! Thank you for everything, dearest Vijay sir.”
Suriya’s fans took offence to the post, feeling that Balaji was giving Vijay credit for Karuppu’s success instead of highlighting Suriya, who played the lead role.
The issue escalated further when editor Kalaivanan was asked by SS Music how the film would have turned out had Vijay acted in it.
He replied, “It could have been even more explosive with scenes more appropriate for his stardom.” He also admitted that he was a fan of Vijay.
Following the backlash, Kalaivanan apologised on X.
“Really sorry Surya anna fans, I didn’t mean it. It was totally misunderstood, and it is completely my fault for using such words. I didn’t mean it. I am always grateful to Surya anna. I will be careful with my words in future interviews. Let’s spread love. Let’s celebrate Karuppu,” he wrote.