During the audio launch of 'Paradesi' recently, director Bala said he has fulfilled one of his duties by casting Atharva in the movie.

These remarks by Bala paved way for a guessing game in the industry, even as there is no further explanation from the National Award winning filmmaker.

Now, Atharva himself has cleared the air on what made Bala to say so. "My father (late Murali) and Bala sir were close. In fact, it was appa who was about to play the lead role in Sethu," says Atharva.

He adds: "But he (Murali) allowed Vikram to do the role, based on a request from Bala. So Bala sir has a lot of respect and love for appa."