South Actor Appukutty Returns To Big Screen With Lead Role In Happy Birthday

Appukutty also known as Sivabalan, started his acting career with minor roles, beginning with the 1998 film Maru Malarchi. However, it wasn’t until nearly 11 years later that he found success with the film Vennila Kabadi Kuzhu, directed by Suseenthiran, which established him as a comedian. Suseenthiran later directed Azhagarsamiyin Kuthirai casting Appukutty as the protagonist, in an adaptation of a short story by writer Bhaskar Shakti. Following a considerable break, Appukutty returns to the lead role in the film Happy Birthday, written and directed by Raju Chandra.

The film is produced by Roji Mathew and Raju Chandra under Plan Three Studios Private Limited and Mathans Group. Malayalam actress Aishwarya Anil makes her Tamil debut as the lead actress in this film. Sreeja Ravi and Roji Mathew are also playing pivotal roles. Raju Chandra, known for directing critically acclaimed Malayalam films like Jimmy Ee Veedinte Aiswaryam (2019) and Shikkari Shambhu (2018), ventures into Tamil cinema with this project, marking his third directorial project.

Raju Chandra has crafted the storyline in a way that suits the audience, blending elements of village life, comedy and romance. The cinematography will capture the essence of rural reality, while Navneet’s music sets the mood. Vinod Kumar oversees the art direction, ensuring authenticity in the film’s visuals. The production team is dedicated to ensuring a smooth release, showcasing their commitment to the project.

Appakutty originally comes from the village of Nathan Kinaru in Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu. In 1994, he relocated to Chennai with the sole purpose of finding employment to sustain himself. Initially working as a cleaner in hotels, Appakutty caught the attention of film industry insiders who offered him acting opportunities. He transitioned into portraying small character roles and, in a 2011 interview, expressed his lifelong aspiration to become a comedian. Over 17 years, he accumulated experience through various minor roles in the industry.