“I’m Proud of ‘Phoenix’ — It’s a Perfect Beginning for My Son, and the Film Will Deeply Connect with Telugu Audiences”: Vijay Sethupathi at Pre-Release Event
The grand pre-release event of the much-talked-about supernatural mythological thriller Phoenix took place in Hyderabad ahead of its Telugu release on November 7th. The film marks the acting debut of Suriya Sethupathi, son of Makkal Selvan Vijay Sethupathi, and is directed by acclaimed stunt choreographer Anal Arasu. Produced by Rajalakshmi “Anal” Arasu under the AK Braveman Pictures banner, Phoenix has already emerged as a blockbuster in Tamil, and expectations are sky-high for its Telugu version.
🎬 Vijay Sethupathi on His Son’s Dream Debut
Speaking at the event, an emotional Vijay Sethupathi expressed immense pride and happiness about his son’s cinematic journey.
“Namaskarams to everyone. I am very happy that Gopichand Malineni Garu graced the event today. His words meant a lot to us. I first met Anal Arasu Master during Jawan, and he told me about this story. Later, he suggested my son act in it. I asked them to discuss it among themselves — and now, seeing the final result, I’m truly proud. I watched Phoenix, and I loved it.”
Vijay Sethupathi described Phoenix as a dream-come-true project for his son, Suriya Sethupathi:
“Suriya has always been fascinated by action cinema. Since childhood, he used to ask me, ‘Appa, why don’t you do more action films?’ He always wanted to do something mass and powerful. When he said he wanted to become an actor, I told him to work hard — and within a year, he made it happen. This dream became reality thanks to Anal Arasu Master and Rajalakshmi Madam, who believed in him completely.”
💥 A Blend of Action and Emotion for All Audiences
Vijay Sethupathi shared his confidence that the film’s emotionally charged narrative will resonate strongly with Telugu audiences:
“A film connects through emotion — not language. Phoenix combines heart, heroism, and emotion beautifully. I can confidently say Telugu audiences will embrace it with open arms. Please watch it in theaters on November 7th! (Laughs) I’m also working on a film with Puri Jagannadh Garu, and by the time it finishes, I promise I’ll speak Telugu fluently — maybe even write a poem in it!”
🎥 Industry Extends a Warm Welcome to Suriya Sethupathi
Filmmaker Gopichand Malineni attended the event to show his support for the debutant and the team.
“I’ve always admired Vijay Sethupathi Garu’s incredible range as an actor. Varalaxmi Sarathkumar is like family, and Anal Arasu Master is a legend in his craft — his action design is like storytelling through movement. The Phoenix trailer is spectacular. I wish Suriya Sethupathi a grand welcome to Telugu cinema, and I’m confident the film will repeat its Tamil success here.”
Actress Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, who also plays a key role, added:
“I’m a huge fan of Vijay Sethupathi Garu, and when I learned his son was debuting, I immediately said yes to being part of this project. Phoenix has already achieved massive success in Tamil, and I’m sure Telugu audiences will shower it with the same love. Please support Suriya on his new journey.”
🔥 Director Anal Arasu & Team Express Confidence
Director Anal Arasu, making his directorial debut after years of success as a stunt choreographer, said:
“Phoenix has been received with tremendous love in Tamil Nadu, and we’re confident that Telugu audiences will connect just as strongly. Suriya Sethupathi is an extremely talented and hardworking actor — he has given his heart to this film.”
Writer Bhashya Sri, who penned the dialogues and lyrics, remarked:
“The film offers everything — emotion, mystery, and powerful action. Every scene has been written with precision, and Phoenix will surprise audiences at every turn. I’m sure people will bless Suriya Sethupathi, just like they did his father.”
🌟 Suriya Sethupathi’s Gratitude
Speaking briefly, debutant Suriya Sethupathi expressed heartfelt thanks to the entire team for their support and trust:
“Working on Phoenix has been a dream come true. I’m grateful to Anal Arasu Master, Rajalakshmi Madam, and my father for believing in me. I hope everyone watches the film and connects with it emotionally.”
🎭 About the Film
Phoenix is a supernatural mythological thriller blending action, emotion, and fantasy elements, centered around rebirth and destiny. The film’s success in Tamil has already made it one of the most talked-about cross-language releases of 2025.
Releasing in Telugu on November 7th, Phoenix promises to deliver an emotionally charged cinematic experience that marks the arrival of a promising new star — Suriya Sethupathi — carrying forward the legacy of Makkal Selvan Vijay Sethupathi.
