The much-anticipated release of actor Vikram’s Veera Dheera Sooran turned chaotic in Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu, as a violent clash erupted between two groups of fans outside a theater. The altercation, which began as a minor argument, quickly escalated, resulting in one person sustaining a severe head injury.
According to a report in Times of India, police were deployed outside the cinema hall to control the situation, disperse the crowd, and prevent further violence.
The incident occurred near the new bus stand theater, where hundreds of fans had gathered for the 10:30 am show on Thursday (March 27).
Following the delay of Veera Dheera Sooran’s release, the film’s director, SU Arun Kumar, shared a video to apologise to fans. He also revealed that the screening of the film will begin from today evening.
Director SU ArunKumar’s heartfelt Apology video for keeping to wait in theatres since morning for #VeeraDheeraSooran ❤️
He mentioned that the shows are opening from today evening https://t.co/85tzGDBN2B
— AmuthaBharathi (@CinemaWithAB) March 27, 2025
What is the controversy?
Tensions rose when an interim court order prevented the screening, leaving fans disappointed. Reports further stated that amidst the wait, two groups – from Peravoor village and Gandhi Nagar in Devipattinam -engaged in celebratory dancing to drum beats.
A verbal dispute turned physical, leading to a full-fledged brawl. Authorities later held discussions with both groups to restore order before allowing the audience inside the theater. The injured individual was given medical attention, and Kenikkarai police have reportedly launched an investigation.
Veera Dheera Sooran’s unexpected release delay
Media reports have also stated that the delay was due to legal complications.
Production company B4U approached the Delhi High Court, citing a contractual dispute with film’s producer Riya Shibu of HR Pictures. The court issued an interim stay on the film’s release until 10:30 am on Thursday, leading to the cancellation of early morning screenings across major multiplex chains like PVR and Cinepolis.
B4U accused Riya Shibu of failing to honour an agreement regarding the film’s OTT rights before its theatrical release and demanded Rs 7 crore in compensation. The court ordered the producer to deposit the amount and submit relevant documents within 48 hours.
Court orders makers of #VeeraDheeraSooran to pay Rs 7 crore within 48 hours. Court puts interim stay on release of #ChiyaanVikram‘s Vikram starrer. Controversy over ‘Veera Dheera Sooran’ releasing this morning The legal issue arose after a petition filed by #B4U.#Chiyaan #Vikram pic.twitter.com/G2LbbxC0HM
— Urmila (@Urmila_95) March 27, 2025
Meanwhile, the legal dispute also impacted international screenings, with planned premiere shows in the US being cancelled.
Besides Vikram, the film also stars SJ Suryah, Suraj Venjaramoodu, Dushara Vijayan