Among the fun anecdotes and BTS trivia that was shared at the recent star-studded Ponniyin Selvan (PS1) event, a highlight that resonated with many was actor Jayam Ravi's speech. It part reflected the struggles of even an established name in the film industry, while part serving as an inspiration for hard work. 

Excerpts of Jayam Ravi's speech from the PS1 audio launch follows:

"Everyone spoke so well..When I think of what I can say,  I recall Kamal sir's dialogue from Vikram (the movie) - 'Do you know what brave men say in situations like these - We'll manage'. Everyone asked how this opportunity (of playing titular character in Ponniyin Selvan) came about. I said 'I don't know, Maniratnam called me, I went and acted'. I kept thinking what good have I done to get this character. 

 

But, as far as I can tell, I didn't do anything worth mentioning. I thought maybe I got this opportunity because of the good my parents did. That's the only truth. Then I thought a little more seriously. I was reminded of Rajini sir's dialogue 'What is meant for you will never be out of reach and what you do not get was never meant for you'.

 

With even more intent thought process, I realized the reason why I got the film. It's just simple. For the past 20 years, I woke up and went to work every day. I think if you do that for your work, things will happen. I felt that I have worked for many years and this role is the result of that. Kamal sir and Rajini sir came forward only because of their hard work for many years. I also believe that it is because of such hard work that I got this film."

Playing a beloved titular character, who is also a revered name in real life Tamil history is a big shoe to fill. And doing that under an ace filmmaker like Mani Ratnam adds to the pressure. Jayam Ravi revealed how he went about handling the same by stating,   

"I've wondered if you can you change someone by just talking? I've realized Mani Sir can do that. He asked me to listen to him explain who Arunmozhi Varman is without interrupting. He detailed one by one about how he would be with the people, how he would be with his elder sister (Kundavai played by Trisha), and how he would be with other kings. 

 

A mood was created (within) when he finished. I just went home (with the same mood). I was perpetually in that mood. I got scolded at home because of this. But there is no other option. I acted with what he taught me in the same mood for 6 months. It is a great privilege to act with him. Thank you very much, sir."

 

Ponniyin Selvan: Part One aka PS1 releases in theaters on September 30, 2022 in Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada languages. Introduction to Ponniyin Selvan story, characters and actors here.