Actor Vijay Kumar’s upcoming Tamil film ‘Arivu’, directed by Sathya Siva, has been selected for the Indian Panorama’s New Horizons section at the 57th International Film Festival of India in Goa, ahead of its worldwide theatrical release on December 11, 2026.
Tamil cinema actor Vijay Kumar‘s upcoming film ‘Arivu’, featuring actress Kayal Anandhi in the lead role, has been selected for screening at the prestigious 57th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), scheduled to be held in Goa. Directed by Sathya Siva, the film will be showcased in the Indian Panorama’s ‘New Horizons’ section, marking a significant achievement for the film’s team even before its theatrical release.
The makers expressed happiness over the selection, considering it an important recognition for their upcoming project. Following the announcement, the production team has also decided to submit the film to several other international film festivals, aiming to reach a wider audience and bring its socially relevant storyline to global platforms.
‘Arivu’ is expected to explore important social issues, particularly education and women’s rights. The film is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on December 11, 2026. Its selection for IFFI has generated additional interest among cinema enthusiasts, especially those following Tamil films with strong social themes.
The film’s shooting was officially wrapped up on May 1, with director Sathya Siva announcing the development through his X account. Sharing a behind-the-scenes making video, he wrote, “#Arivu Shoot Wrapped. From vision to reality — here’s a glimpse of the making.” The video offered glimpses of the production process, including shooting sequences in mountainous locations.
The film was shot in two major schedules, with the first phase taking place in Munnar and the second in Theni. During the Munnar schedule, the production team also attracted public attention for undertaking renovation work at a government school.
Some sequences were filmed at a government school in Letchmi near Ottapaarai in Munnar. While shooting at the location, the team noticed that the institution lacked several basic facilities required by students. Responding to the situation, producer Sai Vinod Jayakumar took the initiative to improve the school’s infrastructure.
The renovation included painting the school building and providing drinking water facilities. The gesture received appreciation from students and local residents, highlighting the production team’s contribution beyond filmmaking.
Apart from Vijay Kumar and Kayal Anandhi, the film features former footballer I M Vijayan, Deepa Shankar and Singam Puli in important roles.
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Sathya Siva has written the story and screenplay, bringing his focus on socially relevant subjects to the project. The film is produced by Sai Vinod Jayakumar under the banner of Movietron Productions.
On the technical front, D. Imman has composed the music, while cinematography is handled by Dil Raju and editing by Vetri Krishnan. S K Ramu serves as the art director.
With its selection for the 57th IFFI and a storyline centred on education and women’s rights, ‘Arivu’ is attracting attention ahead of its December release. The film’s festival journey is expected to provide an opportunity to introduce its social message to audiences beyond Tamil cinema.
