MUMBAI: The two mega stars of the South Indian film Industry are an everyday name in the Indian Peninsula. Thalapathy Vijay and Mahesh Babu embrace a mighty fanbase in the Tamil and Telugu film Industries along with an extensive scattered fan base across other parts of India. 

While the two stars embrace their popularity, the fanclubs of both these stars love to put on a show in proving which one is the best. Amidst the rivalry between fanclubs, Thalapathy Vijay and Mahesh Babu were close to coalescing for a film only to drop it later. 

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The much anticipated film was Mani Ratnam’s Ponniyin Selvan, which was released in two parts, and was one of the most talked about and awaited movies from the South. Director Mani Ratnam desired to cast both the stars for Vandiyadevan and Arunmozhi Varman in Ponniyin Selvan.

Before finalising Karthi for the role of Vallavaraiyan Vanthiyathevan, the orphaned prince of the Vana clan, and Jayam Ravi for the character of Arunmozhi Varman, also known as Raja Raja Chola, initial contemplation was given to Thalapathy Vijay and Mahesh Babu for these pivotal roles. According to reports, Jeyamohan, the writer, revealed in an interview that Thalapathy Vijay and Mahesh Babu were initially considered for the film's roles. However, both actors declined their respective parts, leading the team to ultimately cast Karthi and Jayam Ravi in the film.

Director Mani Ratnam's initial ambitious plan to cast the stars like Rajinikanth, MGR, and Kamal Hassan only seemed to be a distant dream. Despite the prolonged wait, Ponniyin Selvan 1 finally graced the screens in 2022, followed by the release of Ponniyin Selvan 2 earlier this year. Both instalments garnered success at the box office.

Ponniyin Selvan, an adaptation of Kalki Krishnamurthy’s acclaimed novel, boasts a stellar cast from the film industry. Alongside Karthi and Jayam Ravi, the ensemble features Chiyaan Vikram as crown prince Aditya Karikalan, Trisha Krishnan portraying princess Kundavai Devi, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in a dual role as the antagonist Nandini and Omani Rani. The film also includes Sarathkumar, Prabhu, Lal, Kishore, Ashwin Kakumanu, and Aishwarya Lekshmi in various supporting roles, contributing to the grandeur of this period action drama.

The fan clubs dedicated to Mahesh Babu and Thalapathy Vijay play an instrumental role in fervently promoting their respective stars' films, commemorating significant milestones in their illustrious careers, and organising fan-driven events. Although the rivalry between these fan bases adds an extra layer of enthusiasm and fervour into the overall fan culture, it is crucial to highlight that both actors have consistently conveyed mutual respect for each other on multiple occasions. Emphasising the camaraderie that transcends the fan rivalry in the film industry.

Also Read:Ponniyin Selvan Part 2 movie review: Grand film with great performances, but just too long

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Credit: Koimoi