Stalin, Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasanpay tributes to AVM Saravanan

Unveiling the portrait of late veteran Tamil cinema producer M. Saravanan (of AVM) in Chennai on Sunday, Mr. Stalin hailed his contribution to the industry, Chennai city, and society.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Stalin hailed the AVM family and recalled how Saravanan took after his father in leading AVM.

He recollected that, as a student, Saravanan had won a prize for delivering a famous dialogue from the film Parasakthi.

The Chief Minister said that it was during the Second World Tamil Conference that Saravanan was introduced to M. Karunanidhi (former Chief Minister), and underlined the long association between Karunanidhi and the AVM family.

Actor Rajinikanth recalled his long association with AVM as well as with Saravanan, and termed him a “real gentleman”.

Sharing anecdotes, Mr. Rajinikanth recalled how Saravanan had been helpful and had shared valuable advice on various issues.

Actor and Rajya Sabha MP Kamal Haasan said Saravanan was instrumental in shaping him as an actor since his childhood. He took pride in highlighting his long association with AVM, and hailed Saravanan as a great boss, who had faithful workers.

Director of The Hindu Publishing Group N. Ram said Saravanan was not merely a producer or a studio head, but a custodian of cinematic tradition and legacy that began with an illustrious father. “He carried the torch with dignity, vision, and humility,” Mr. Ram said.

Hailing Saravanan, he said: “We remember a life lived with purpose, dignity, and quiet strength. Nothing was lacking in that life, and we remember a man who believed in the power of stories and the importance of discipline, and above all, the value of treating every individual man, woman or child with respect.”