Filmmaker Dharani is overjoyed by the response that his blockbuster movie Ghilli has received in cinemas worldwide after its re-release last week . He expressed deep gratitude to fans and media for keeping the memory of the movie alive for 20 years, resulting in such a smashing opening for the film.

Ghilli, starring Thalapathy Vijay and Trisha in the lead roles, was first released in 2004 and became a huge hit at the time. However, no one predicted it would generate such immense enthusiasm among fans upon re-release after two decades.

"I didn't expect this kind of response. A big thanks to everyone. I thought they would watch it for just one day. I didn't even expect the kind of reception it received on opening day," said Dharani in an interview.

Dharani also shared many insights into behind-the-door discussions and his creative process that shaped the narrative of Ghilli, which is very different from the original Okkadu, starring Mahesh Babu in the lead role.

Okkadu vs Ghilli debate

Even before Vijay, Dharani watched Okkadu and was impressed by all its plot elements. He later approached producer AM Ratnam to buy the remake rights. Originally, the director had a different star cast in mind. However, when Vijay expressed interest in being part of the remake, Dharani jumped at the opportunity.

Ghilli went on to become a bigger hit than Okkadu in terms of both popularity and box office. Emotions still stir today when fans debate which was a better movie between Okkadu and Ghilli. Dharani seems to believe that it's not a fair comparison given they both belong to different categories altogether.

"Okkadu is a class film, not a mass film. Whatever they did in that film was right. Okkadu film is like a beautiful melody, but we changed it to (Ghilli) a 'kuthu' song," he explained.

Ghilli has managed to earn more than Rs 10 crore in India alone within four days of its re-release. The film's box office earnings have shocked the industry given that it's easily available for streaming on multiple platforms. "Ghilli" can be streamed on SunNXT, Aha Tamil, and OTTplay Premium.

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