Selvaraghavan, one of Tamil cinema’s most distinctive filmmakers, is making a surprising move: his first outing as an actor in Malayalam cinema. The film in question is Balti, an intense sports-action drama fronted by Shane Nigam.

A Director Turns Performer

Selvaraghavan plays Porthamarai Bhairavan, described by the makers as a “fierce devotee of Kalabhairavan.” His striking look as the character has already drawn attention, adding a mysterious and spiritual edge to the film’s narrative.

The ensemble goes beyond Nigam and Selvaraghavan. Tamil actor Shanthnu Bhagyaraj is on board as Kumar, while filmmaker Alphonse Puthren switches lanes to portray a gangster named Soda Babu. Together, the trio brings a rare mix of cross-industry talent to Malayalam screens.

Selvaraghavan, of course, is no stranger to acting. He has delivered key performances in films like Vijay’s Beast, Keerthy Suresh’s Saani Kaayidham, and Dhanush’s directorial Raayan. But his reputation rests largely on his directorial work—classics like Kaadhal Kondein, 7G Rainbow Colony, Pudhupettai, Aayirathil Oruvan, and Mayakkam Enna. He is currently busy helming 7G Rainbow Colony 2, with Ravi Krishna reprising his original role and Malayalam star Anaswara Rajan cast opposite him.

Kabaddi, Action, and a New Creative Voice

Directed by debutant Unni Sivalingam, Balti is being billed as a kabaddi-based sports actioner with strong commercial appeal. The film marks Shane Nigam’s 25th appearance as a lead actor, with his character Udhayan portrayed as a fearless kabaddi raider whose aggression dominates the court.

Preethi Asrani plays the female lead, while the technical team features a host of fresh and familiar names. Cinematography is handled by Alex J Pulickal, editing by Shivkumar V Panicker, and art direction by Ashik S. Stunts are choreographed by Action Sandhosh and Vicky, promising adrenaline-soaked sequences. Costume design comes courtesy of Melwy J, while the soundtrack introduces Sai Abhyankkar to Malayalam audiences.

Shot across locations including Coimbatore, Palakkad, and Pollachi, the bilingual project straddles both Malayalam and Tamil industries, aiming for a broad audience.

Though originally scheduled for an Onam release, the film’s premiere has now been postponed. Balti is officially set to arrive in cinemas worldwide on September 26, 2025.

With its fusion of sport, mythology, and raw action, Balti is shaping up to be more than a regular sports drama. Selvaraghavan’s entry as a performer in Malayalam, combined with Shane Nigam’s milestone role, makes the film a significant cross-industry event.

Also Read: Selvaraghavan Is Mighty Impressed With Mohanlal’s Thudarum

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