Director Bala debuted as a director in the year 1999 through the film ‘Sethu’ starcast by Vikram in the lead role. This movie was critically acclaimed and received many notable awards. He has directed ten films which include Sethu, Nandha, Pithamagan, Naan Kadavul, Avan Ivan, Pradesi, Tharai Thappatai, Naachiyaar, Varma and Vanangaan. Out of these movies ‘Varama’ was dropped without the release even after the completion of the movie since the Hero of the movie Debutante Dhruv Vikram’s father Vikram did not like the movie. This led to a dispute between Vikram and Bala and the movie was put to a halt without getting released in theaters. The same movie was later released on OTT platforms and received mixed reviews and criticism. ‘Vanangaan’ starcast by Arun Vijay, Ridha, Roshini Prakash, Myskkin, Samuthirakani and others is the tenth film being directed by Bala. The movie has been scheduled to be released on January 10th for the Pongal Holidays.
Commemorating 25 years of Bala as Director in Tamil Cinema, the production team has planned to celebrate it along with the Audio Launch of the movie Vanangan on 18th December 2024 at Chennai. Edappadi Palaniswamy the Ex-Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu has sent his wishes as a letter in Tamil to Director Bala.
The letter mentions as, “I am delighted to share the joyous occasion of the Silver Jubilee of one of Tamil cinema’s most remarkable directors, Mr. Bala. Marking 25 years of an extraordinary journey in the film industry, the celebration will coincide with the audio launch of his latest film, ‘Vanangaan’, scheduled to take place on December 18th in Chennai, under the auspices of the production company.
In a fiercely competitive industry, Director Bala has carved a unique niche for himself. From his very first film, he chose to pursue cinema with a purpose, focusing on the pain and resilience of common people rather than succumbing to commercial trends. Over the past 25 years, his unwavering commitment to his distinct style of storytelling has earned him respect and recognition as a true auteur.
Drawing inspiration from his mentor, the legendary Mr. Balu Mahendra, Director Bala has become a beacon of artistic integrity and creative excellence in Tamil cinema. On this milestone, I extend my heartfelt wishes to him, hoping his journey of crafting meaningful cinema continues to flourish for years to come.” has been mentioned in the letter sent by Edappadi Palaniswamy to Director Bala.