Ghilli Re-Release – 20 Feb 2026

Tamil cinema lovers, get ready to relive one of the biggest blockbusters in Kollywood history. Ghilli is returning to theatres on 20 February 2026, bringing back the electrifying action, unforgettable dialogues, and mass moments that defined an era. Even after more than two decades, the film continues to hold a special place in fans’ hearts.

A Story Packed with Action and Emotion

At the heart of Ghilli lies the journey of Saravanavelu, fondly known as Velu, an ambitious Kabaddi player from Chennai. He dreams of making it big in the sport and travels to Madurai to participate in a regional Kabaddi tournament. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with Dhanalakshmi.

Meanwhile, Dhanalakshmi is desperately trying to escape from Muthupandi, a powerful and ruthless man determined to marry her against her will. When Velu courageously rescues her, he unknowingly invites danger into his own life. As a result, the narrative shifts from a sports drama to a gripping chase thriller.

From that point onward, the film builds intense momentum. Velu must not only protect Dhanalakshmi but also outsmart Muthupandi’s men at every step. Consequently, the story blends romance, family sentiment, and high-octane action in perfect balance.

Notably, Ghilli is the Tamil remake of the Telugu blockbuster Okkadu, originally directed by Gunasekhar. Nevertheless, the Tamil version carved its own identity and became an industry-defining success.

Power-Packed Performances

One of the strongest pillars of Ghilli is its stellar cast.

• Vijay as Saravanavelu (Velu / Ghilli)** – Vijay delivers one of his career-defining performances. His energetic screen presence, stylish action sequences, and charming romantic moments elevate the film throughout. Moreover, his Kabaddi scenes add authenticity and excitement to the narrative.
• Trisha as S. Dhanalakshmi** – Trisha brings emotional depth to her role. In addition, her chemistry with Vijay remains one of the highlights of the film.
• Prakash Raj as Muthupandi** – Undoubtedly, Prakash Raj’s portrayal of the intimidating antagonist is iconic. His powerful dialogue delivery and intense expressions make Muthupandi one of the most memorable villains in Tamil cinema.
• Ashish Vidyarthi as DCP Sivasubramaniam IPS** – Playing Velu’s strict yet caring father, he adds authority and emotional weight to the story.
• Tanikella Bharani as Minister Rajapandi** – He contributes significantly to the political undertones in the narrative.
• Janaki Sabesh, Jennifer, Nagendra Prasad, and Dhamu further strengthen the film with their memorable supporting performances.

Direction and Technical Brilliance

The film is directed by Dharani, who skillfully adapts the original story while enhancing it with a distinctly Tamil flavor. Furthermore, the screenplay keeps the pace tight, ensuring there is never a dull moment.

The dialogues, written by Bharathan, are punchy and impactful. As a result, several lines from the movie became fan-favorite quotes.

Musically, Ghilli is elevated by the energetic soundtrack composed by Vidyasagar. Songs like “Appadi Podu” turned into cultural phenomena and continue to dominate playlists even today. Additionally, the background score intensifies both the action and emotional sequences.

Produced by Sri Surya Movies, the film was mounted on a grand scale, especially for its time. Consequently, it emerged as one of the highest-grossing Tamil films of 2004.

Why Ghilli Still Matters

Even years after its original release, Ghilli remains a benchmark commercial entertainer. On one hand, it delivers adrenaline-pumping action. On the other hand, it balances romance, comedy, and family drama seamlessly.

Moreover, the Kabaddi theme gave the film a unique sporting edge. Unlike many mainstream action films, Ghilli integrates sports into the hero’s identity, which adds depth to Velu’s character. Therefore, the movie resonates with both mass audiences and family viewers.

Most importantly, Vijay’s transformation into a full-fledged mass hero gained major momentum through this film. As a result, Ghilli played a crucial role in shaping his superstar image in Tamil cinema.

Book Tickets for the 2026 Re-Release

Now, fans have the golden opportunity to experience this blockbuster once again on the big screen. Whether you watched it in 2004 or are discovering it for the first time, the theatrical re-release on 20 February 2026 promises whistles, cheers, and nostalgic celebrations.

So, gather your friends and family. Relive the action. Revisit the romance. And once again, witness the magic of Ghilli in theatres.