Archive · 1 Feb 2026
Madhavan's Bold Move in Aayutha Ezhuthu
R Madhavan was offered a role in the movie Aayutha Ezhuthu by director Mani Ratnam.
He didn't want the role of a lover boy, so he asked to play a different character named Inbasekar.
To convince Mani Ratnam, he changed his appearance drastically by shaving his head, getting very tanned, and building muscles.
He even studied lions to understand his character better.
Mani Ratnam was surprised but agreed to give him the role.
Madhavan's preparation and dedication helped him get the part he wanted.
R Madhavan was initially offered the role of Arjun Balakrishnan in Aayutha Ezhuthu.
He requested to play Inbasekar instead, as he found the character more challenging.
Madhavan transformed his appearance to convince Mani Ratnam, including shaving his head and tanning.
He studied lions to understand the violent yet calm nature of his character.
Mani Ratnam was initially offended but ultimately agreed to cast Madhavan as Inbasekar.
- Who
- R Madhavan, Mani Ratnam, Siddharth, Suriya, Trisha, Esha Deol
- What
- Madhavan's role change in Aayutha Ezhuthu
- When
- 2004
- Where
- India (filming locations not specified)
- Why
- Madhavan wanted a more challenging role with better lines
- Film
- Aayutha Ezhuthu
- Director
- Mani Ratnam
- Original Role Offered
- Arjun Balakrishnan
- Role Played
- Inbasekar
- Co-stars
- Suriya, Trisha, Esha Deol
- Hindi Version
- Yuva
- Madhavan's Preparation
- Shaved head, tanned, built muscles, studied lions