Vijay Sethupathi and Lijomol Jose-starrer ‘Baththa’ has begun its theatrical run to positive early reactions, with the Balaji Tharaneetharan directorial drawing appreciation for its emotional storytelling and performances. The film has now received praise from filmmaker Nithilan Saminathan, who previously directed Sethupathi in Maharaja, as well as Telugu filmmaker Puri Jagannadh, who is set to collaborate with the actor on his upcoming project.
Nithilan Saminathan praises Vijay Sethupathi’s Baththa
Nithilan Saminathan shared his reaction to ‘Baththa’ on X (formerly Twitter), calling the film “beautiful” and saying it touched him deeply. The filmmaker’s comments come after his successful collaboration with Vijay Sethupathi in the 2024 thriller Maharaja.Taking to X, Nithilan wrote, “#Baththa Such a beautiful film. Touched my heart deeply.”
Puri Jagannadh praises Vijay Sethupathi’s choice of stories
Puri Jagannadh also took to X (previously Twitter) to congratulate the ‘Baththa’ team while praising Vijay Sethupathi’s approach to selecting roles.“Hearing some excellent reports about #Baththa Sethu sir, you have always been an actor who chooses stories that bring out something new in you. Really happy to hear such positive reports about this one,” Puri wrote.He went on to congratulate Vijay Sethupathi, director Balaji Tharaneetharan and the entire team for the film.Puri also acknowledged producer Priya Atlee and presenter Atlee for backing the project, describing them as “the pillar of the strength and backing this gem” of a film. He also singled out composer Sai Abhyankkar, calling him “a young sensation” and adding that he has “a long way to go.”
Puri Jagannadh to direct Vijay Sethupathi next
Puri Jagannadh and Vijay Sethupathi are already set to collaborate on an upcoming bilingual project. The film, which was earlier referred to as Puri Sethupathi, has Tabu and Samyuktha in key roles and completed its shoot in November 2025.The project is expected to mark Sethupathi’s return to Telugu cinema in a prominent role following Uppena. The film is being mounted as a Telugu-Tamil project, with Puri Jagannadh directing and producing it alongside Charmme Kaur.
What is ‘Baththa’ about?
‘Baththa’ is set in 1986 Madras and follows a feared local don whose life takes an unexpected turn after he becomes trapped inside a deserted school restroom by an eight-year-old boy. The unlikely friendship that develops between them becomes the emotional centre of the story, as the gangster is forced to confront his vulnerabilities and reconnect with his family.Balaji Tharaneetharan has directed and written the film, with Vijay Sethupathi and Lijomol Jose leading the cast. Sai Abhyankkar has composed the music, while Selva Kumar SK has handled cinematography and R. Kalaivanan has edited the film. The film released in theatres on October 1, 2026. It reunites Vijay Sethupathi and Balaji Tharaneetharan after their earlier collaborations and marks their third film together.
‘Baththa’ faces competition from October 2 releases
With ‘Baththa’ arriving ahead of the Gandhi Jayanti weekend, the film is entering a crowded theatrical window. Several major releases are scheduled around October 2, including Ajay Devgn’s ‘Drishyam: The Conclusion’. Other films arriving during the period include ‘Anbil Avan’, starring Ashok Selvan and Preity Mukhundhan, and ‘Bail’, featuring Shiva Rajkumar. Sundeep Kishan’s ‘Sigma’, directed by Jason Sanjay, is also part of the October release line-up.