Nivin's loss is Ashok's gain

Kootatthil Oruthan, a  film on middle bench students, directed by journalist-turned-filmmaker Gnanavel, was initially meant for Nivin Pauly. However, when Nivin had to turn it down due to various reasons, it fell on Ashok Selvan.

“I wrote the script with Nivin Pauly in mind. It’s a story of a boy with average looks, bespectacled, oiled hair, donning rubber slippers.  I even narrated my story to Nivin. He did like it, but due to other commitments, he could not give his dates,” revealed Gnanavel.

Ashok Selvan then heard about Gnanavel looking for a hero through his music composer Nivas.

Speaking to DC, Ashok says, “I picked up the phone and offered myself to Gnanavel sir to be part of the project as I could relate to the character who yearns for individual identity.”

The 144 actor adds, “In my house, my akka Abhinaya was always a star because she was studious. People around me always identify me as Abhi’s thambi. Almost all these things are  reflected in the film. I am really happy to have done this movie.”

Priya Anand, the female lead, says, “When Gnanavel approached me, I was on the verge of quitting films. But after listening to the script, I felt motivated to accept it. After seeing the final product, I know I took the right decision (smiles).”

Samuthirakani, Nasser, Balasaravanan, Sanjay Bharathi play supporting roles. The film, which was in the making for long, has crossed many hurdles and is set to release on July 28.