Vaazhai OTT release date: When and where to watch Mari Selvaraj’s critically acclaimed film (2025)

After earning widespread acclaim in theatres, Mari Selvaraj's Tamil drama 'Vaazhai' is set to make its digital debut. The film, which tells a heartfelt story grounded in real-life experiences, will be available to stream on Disney+ Hotstar starting October 11, 2024. 'Vaazhai,' directed, co-produced, and written by Mari Selvaraj, first premiered in theatres on August 23, 2024.

The film stars newcomers Ponvel M. and Raghul R. in lead roles, alongside performances by Kalaiyarasan and Nikhila Vimal in key supporting roles. This marks Selvaraj’s fourth directorial effort following his successful films 'Pariyerum Perumal,' 'Karnan,' and 'Maamannan.'

Vaazhai Plot and Cast

The story of 'Vaazhai' revolves around Sivanaindhan, a bright young boy from a poor village in Tamil Nadu, who helps his family by working in banana fields. The film is set in 1998, a time of hardship for the boy's family. When a tragic accident involving a lorry claims several lives in the village, Sivanaindhan's life takes an unexpected turn, altering his future. The film explores themes of poverty, family, and resilience, making it relatable to a broad audience.

The movie is inspired by Selvaraj's own life experiences, which adds a layer of authenticity to the storytelling. Viewers are drawn into Sivanaindhan's world, where he juggles the pressures of education, labor, and survival.

In addition to its captivating narrative, 'Vaazhai' boasts an impressive technical crew. The film features cinematography by Theni Eswar, a frequent collaborator of Selvaraj, having previously worked together on 'Karnan' and 'Maamannan.' The film's music is composed by Santhosh Narayanan, while the art direction is handled by Kumar Gangappan. The choreography of stunts is by Dhilip Subbarayan, and dance sequences are directed by Sandy Master. This film also marks Nikhila Vimal's first project with the acclaimed director.

Vaazhai Box-Office

Following its theatrical release, 'Vaazhai' garnered critical acclaim for its heartfelt storytelling and strong performances. The film was praised not only for its compelling plot but also for the way it portrayed the cultural and socio-economic realities of rural Tamil Nadu. Prominent filmmakers, including Bala, Sudha Kongara, and Ram, have lauded the film for its emotional depth and authenticity.

According to early reviews, 'Vaazhai' is a "lovely deviation" from Selvaraj’s previous works. The movie has been celebrated as a moving depiction of pain and childhood innocence. Its ability to break away from conventional narratives while retaining emotional gravity has struck a chord with both critics and audiences alike.

Vaazhai OTT Release

For those who missed the chance to catch the film in theatres, the wait is almost over. 'Vaazhai' will be available for streaming on Disney+ Hotstar from October 11, 2024. This digital release will allow a wider audience to experience the film, with it being available in multiple languages, including Hindi, Telugu, Kannada, Bengali, Malayalam, and Marathi.

Selvaraj's decision to bring 'Vaazhai' to the OTT platform represents a new chapter in the film's journey. With the growing popularity of streaming services, especially in India, the release on Disney+ Hotstar is expected to attract both fans of the director and new viewers who are curious about this highly anticipated film.

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