Actor-director Ken Karunaas delivered an emotional and heartfelt speech at the Youth success meet, reflecting on his journey and thanking everyone who contributed to the film’s success.

Stating that reaching the audience is as important as making a film, Ken thanked the promotional team, press, and media for amplifying Youth. He began by expressing gratitude to his parents and extended special thanks to TSR for his support. He also credited his friend Ammamuthu Surya for being instrumental in getting the project off the ground, revealing that it was through him that producer Karuppaiah C. Ram came on board.

Ken went on to acknowledge his technical crew, including cinematographer Vicky, admitting he was initially unsure about working with him due to his technical expertise, but later realised the gap was in his own understanding. He also appreciated art director Ramu, calling him a constant support and confirming their collaboration will continue in future projects.

Speaking about his actors, Ken thanked his female co-stars, calling them his “three sisters,” and shared his initial nervousness working with heroines for the first time. He credited RJ Balaji for motivating him to make a film and expressed deep gratitude to GV Prakash for agreeing to be part of the project.

He had special words for Nalini, who he said gave him immense positive energy on set, and Devadarshini, whom he praised for her support despite personal challenges during the shoot. Recalling a moment with Suraj Venjaramoodu, Ken shared that the actor told him he would be like a brother going forward and credited his performance, especially in the climax, as a major factor behind the film’s success.

On producer Karuppaiah C. Ram, Ken humorously remarked that his only “issue” was how sharp and aware he is, making it impossible to cut corners. He reiterated that Youth was intended as a simple, old-school commercial entertainer aimed at leaving audiences happy, rather than a complex narrative.

An emotional Ken admitted he was overwhelmed by the theatrical response and box office performance, calling it surreal. While he believed audiences would enjoy the film, he said he never expected such a strong emotional connection. He also noted that he has carefully taken feedback from critics and intends to apply it in his future films.

Closing his speech on a deeply emotional note, Ken reflected on the three-year journey with Youth and the thought of the film eventually leaving theatres. “Thank you, Youth, for making me a hero,” he said.