Thaai Kizhavi actor Radikaa Sarathkumar on transforming for her character: I'm claustrophobic but they put Plaster of Paris on my face for hours

We had previously reported that actor Radikaa Sarathkumar will be headlining a film titled Thaai Kizhavi. The makers on Wednesday released a featurette, which takes us through the behind the scenes and making of the central character, played by the seasoned actor.

Thaai Kizhavi: What did Radikaa Sarathkumar say about transforming into her role?

Sivakumar Murugesan, who is directing Thaai Kizhavi, called the film's major element was designing the look of Pavunthaai, the central character. While the team researched on the physique of old women and document them, the makers began with the face cast of Radikaa. The prosthetics was done by debutant prosthetics artist Vineesh Vijayan.

"Vineesh Vijayan, the prosthetics make-up artist was fantastic and very accommodative. I became one among the women in that village, so much so that, I was not identifiable. When I began talking, some only called that I resembled Radikaa," the actor said.

Radikaa also explained how she is claustrophobic but had to wear the cast for hours. "I am severely claustrophobic, so much so that I don't even do facial. But they kept Plaster of Paris and for it to set, it took about 4-5 hours. Once I heaved a sigh of relief after that, I was told it was only the beginning. It is team work and not only about my acting,” she added. The senior actor also revealed how she shared the work with Kamal Haasan who was in awe of her transformation.

Thaai Kizhavi release date:

Thaai Kizhavi is set to release in theatres on February 20. The film is backed by Sivakarthikeyan under his banner and also features a cast including Singam Puli, Arul Doss, Bala Saravanan, Munishkanth, Ilavarasu, George Maryan, Muthukumar, Raichal Rabecca and others in supporting roles.

Directed by Sivakumar Murugesan in his directorial debut, the film’s post-theatrical streaming rights have been bagged by JioHotstar. With music composed by Nivas K Prasanna, the film is shot by Vivek Vijayakumar and edited by San Lokesh.

Thaai Kizhavi FAQs

Q. What is Thaai Kizhavi release date?

A. Thaai Kizhavi will release in theatres on February 20, 2026.

Q. What is Thaali Kizhavi OTT partner?

A. JioHotstar has bagged the OTT rights of Thaai Kizhavi and will be available on OTTplay Premium as well.

Q. What is Thaali Kizhavi mean?

A. The title refers to a funny way of addressing an old woman.