‘Jana Nayagan’ audio launch: Atlee’s speech strikes an emotional chord, says “He believed in me when I was nobody”

Atlee’s accent-laden speech at the ‘Jana Nayagan’ audio launch event organized at the National Stadium, Bukit Jalil, Malaysia, was the major talking point of the day. The renamed Thalapathy Thiruvizha was a complete love letter to Vijay’s movies and their unique bond. With Jana Nayagan evening dubbed as Vijay’s last film one naturally starts to think that this event will stand out, a celebration of gratitude and respect, and nothing less.

Atlee’s journey with Vijay

In his speech, Atlee spoke about his initial experiences in the industry and how Vijay’s modesty impressed him. Remembering a significant encounter, he said that while working as an assistant director, Vijay spoke to him on his last day and said, “You are working well. If you have a script, come to me and narrate it.” At that time, Vijay had already completed 50 films, and Atlee pointed out that very few stars of such stature would extend such encouragement. He summed up his emotions by affectionately calling Vijay, “my brother, my Thalapathy,” words that instantly struck an emotional chord with the audience.

Atlee calls Vijay his brother

Atlee then used a powerful life analogy that deeply resonated with those present. He said in life there were three kinds of people – leaves that come and go, branches that snap during storms, and roots that remain. “My Vijay brother is the root,” he said to thunderous applause. He recounted their shared journey working together in mega-blockbusters ‘Theri,’ ‘Mersal,’ and ‘Bigil’. Not just phenomenal commercial successes, “but I also had a confidence in Vijay, and that confidence built a great combination with each film.“

A viral moment that captured brotherhood on stage

The emotional high point of the evening was when Atlee ran up on stage in excitement and hugged Vijay. Vijay wrapped his arms around Atlee and kissed his shoulder to thunderous applause. The social media shareable clip was an emotionally charged depiction of their friendship. With compositions from Anirudh Ravichander and a live orchestra setting the tone, the ‘Jana Nayagan’ audio launch was a grand celebration of cinema, partnership, and an impactful friendship in the Tamil film industry.