Gautham Menon Credits Vijay’s Leo for Financial Comeback Ahead of Dhruva Natchathiram Release

Filmmaker Gautham Vasudev Menon has opened up about the financial challenges that stalled his ambitious project Dhruva Natchathiram and how his acting role in Leo, headlined by Vijay, played a decisive role in helping him regain stability.

The director, known for delivering stylish thrillers and romantic dramas in Tamil cinema, revealed that he faced significant monetary and legal setbacks that delayed the release of Dhruva Natchathiram: Chapter One – Yuddha Kaandam for years. The long-awaited spy action film stars Vikram in the lead role and has been in production limbo despite multiple release announcements over the past decade.

Speaking during a recent media interaction, Menon explained that when support for the film’s release did not materialise, he decided to take up acting assignments in other projects to manage his financial obligations. Among these, his appearance in Leo proved particularly significant. He credited the film for helping him navigate through a difficult financial phase and stabilise his professional commitments.

Menon confirmed that the censor certification process for Dhruva Natchathiram has now been completed under his name, with only minor formalities remaining before the film moves closer to release. This development marks a major milestone for a project that has faced repeated delays since its inception.

Originally announced in 2013 with Suriya attached as the lead, the project was shelved due to creative differences. It was later revived in 2015 with Vikram stepping in as the protagonist. Despite aiming for a 2017 theatrical release, the film encountered financial hurdles that led to multiple postponements.

The espionage thriller revolves around a covert operative who leads a specialised anti-terrorist unit known as “The Basement.” The film boasts a notable ensemble cast, including Ritu Varma, Aishwarya Rajesh, Simran, R Parthiban, Radhika Sarathkumar and Vinayakan, adding to the scale and ambition of the production.

Industry observers note that Menon’s willingness to diversify into acting during a challenging period reflects his determination to protect his creative ventures. With the censor clearance secured and financial obstacles largely addressed, expectations are building around the film’s eventual theatrical debut.

Menon has also indicated plans to expand Dhruva Natchathiram into a broader franchise, signalling his long-term vision for the spy thriller universe. After years of uncertainty, the project now appears closer than ever to reaching audiences, marking what could be a significant comeback moment for the filmmaker.