Riding on the record-breaking success of Amaran, which grossed over ₹300 crore worldwide, actor Shivakarthikeyan is returning with Madrasi, directed by A.R. Murugadoss. The film, mounted on a budget of ₹180–200 crore, releases globally tomorrow (September 5). Trade circles estimate it must net at least ₹200 crore to turn profitable, the highest target of Shivakarthikeyan’s career.
The film is seen as a crucial comeback for Murugadoss, who last disappointed with Sarkar but earlier delivered blockbusters like Thuppakki and Kaththi. Originally pitched to Vijay and later Shah Rukh Khan, the story now headlines Shivakarthikeyan in his most intense role yet.
Set against illegal arms smuggling in Tamil Nadu, the film portrays Raghu, a youth pushed into the underworld to save his lover, whose volatile nature blurs the line between hero and villain. The trailer has drawn strong reactions for Shivakarthikeyan’s rugged look, Vidyut Jammwal’s villainy, and Anirudh Ravichander’s powerful score.
Produced by Sri Lakshmi Movies, Madrasi co-stars Rukmini Vasanth, Biju Menon, and Vikrant. It will release simultaneously in Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, Malayalam, and Kannada.