Vetri Maaran has given Soori’s Mandaadi a major industry stamp, calling it the first “blockbuster” he has seen from any of his former assistants.

Director Mathimaran Pugazhendhi worked under Vetri Maaran before helming this coastal boat-race drama for producer Elred Kumar. After a special screening, Vetri Maaran said audiences are connecting with the film in theatres and that the response is spilling into Telugu markets too. He singled out the courage it took to mount a subject this demanding at sea.

Mandaadi stars Soori with Suhas, Mahima Nambiar and Sathyaraj. GV Prakash scores; SR Kathir shoots; action credits include Peter Hein, Dhilip Subbarayan and Mahesh Mathew — with the climax race still the big talking point.

The master #Vettrimaran about the success of Soori's - #Mandaadi pic.twitter.com/u9ZJuPQccl

— V2Cinemas (@V2Cinemas) September 14, 2026