Thiruvilaiyaadal Aarambam (Eng: The Beginning of Thiru’s Games) is a 2006 Tamil comedy film directed by Boopathy Pandian and produced by Vimala Geetha. Dhanush and Shriya Saran play the lead roles, while Prakash Raj, Karunas and Saranya play other pivotal roles. The film, which had music composed by D. Imaan, was released on 15 December 2006 and performed well at the box office. Thiruvilaiyaadal Aarambam was announced in late August 2005 with Boopathy Pandian and Dhanush coming together after a previous collaboration in Devathayai Kanden (2004). Pandian had previously discussed the role with Bharath, but the actor’s refusal meant that Dhanush was chosen. Shriya Saran, who rose to fame in Tamil films after her role in Mazhai, was signed as the heroine and the film was titled as Naveena Thiruvilayadal, though the prefix was later dropped. In September 2010, actor Sivaji Ganesan’s Fan Club issued legal notice to the film’s producer, Vimala Geetha, to change the name of the film Thiruvilayadal within 15 days or face legal action before the necessary forum. They had felt that the title was reminiscent of the 1965 Sivaji film of the same name, and felt that the new venture would defame the old film. K. Bhagyaraj was initially pencilled in to play Dhanush’s father in the film, but was later replaced by Mouli due to the delay of the film. Shriya Saran was forced to opt out of the film in October 2005 owing to her commitment to work in Rajinikanth’s Sivaji. Reports suggested that either Tamannaah or Ileana may be approached to replace her, while the film’s inactivity led to rumours that the film was cancelled.
However in January 2006, Boopathy Pandian confirmed that the film would continue and the remaining portions would be swiftly completed. Shriya however returned to work on the film after she was able to allot dates.
Thirukumaran (Dhanush) is a carefree laid back guy who has a great time with his friends (Karunas, Sukumar and others). He falls in love with Priya (Shriya Saran), who is the sister of Guru (Prakash Raj), a rich business tycoon. The story is about a cat-and-mouse game between Thiru and Guru, who is against Thiru and Priya’s love. Thiru (Dhanush), the hero wins the game at the end.
Directed by Boopathy Pandian
Produced by Dr. K. Vimalageetha
Written by Boopathy Pandian
Starring Dhanush, Shriya Saran, Prakash Raj
Music by D. Imman
Cinematography S. Vaidy
Edited by G. Sasikumar
Production R. K. Productions
Release dates 15 December 2006
Language Tamil
