Director Shankar and Vadivelu have come for special pat from Rajinikanth.

Speaking at a function organized in Chennai on Saturday to celebrate the 100-day run of Imsai Arasan 23am Pulikesi, Rajinikanth said, 'Shankar had the guts to produce a historical film at a huge budget in Imsai Arasan.It was a risky venture. Fortunately it paid off.'

‘He has been encouraging right talent and always thinks out-of-the-box. He deserves a pat for it. Also debutant director Simbu Devan has directed the movie with aplomb. He is sure to go places,’ Rajinikanth said.

Heaping laurels on Vadivelu, Rajinikanth said, 'I have been watching him since the Valli days. He has emerged as a matured actor today doing not just comedy but also character roles with ease and comfort. He should play the lead role in the sequel to Imsai Arasan too.’

Rajini also distributed shields and trophies to the cast and crew involved in the making of Imsai Arasan 23am Pulikesi. Technicians who worked in the film were honored.

Vivek, on his part, expressed his joy at watching Vadivelu in Imsai Arasan. 'His body language and dialogue delivery amazed me,' he said.

Among those who took part in the function included directors Simbu Devan, Lingusamy, Balaji Sakthivel, producer-director Shankar, actors Vijay, Sathyaraj, Nasser and Prabhu. Directors Lingusamy and Balaji Saktivel, actors Sathyaraj and Vijay also spoke on the occasion. 

Shankar said that his S Pictures is committed to encourage fresh talents. Thankfully our attempts have been well received by the audience. It will encourage us to try out new things.