Rajinikanth remembers AVM Saravanan as a 'true gentleman' and lifelong support

Tamil superstar Rajinikanth paid heartfelt tributes to veteran producer AVM Saravanan, who passed away early on Thursday. Calling him a true gentleman, Rajinikanth said Saravanan was someone who had stood by him during some of the most difficult phases of his life.

Speaking to the media after offering his last respects, Rajinikanth said, “He was a really great person. He was a true example of a gentleman. He would always wear white, and his heart was just as pure. He loved cinema deeply. Even if he spoke for just a few minutes, he would mention his father, whom he fondly called ‘Appachi’, several times.”

Rajinikanth went on to recall the special bond he shared with the iconic producer, who was widely admired for his humility and kindness. “He loved me a lot and was always a well-wisher. He stood by me when I went through difficult times. I have acted in nine films with AVM, and all nine were big hits. It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say Saravanan sir was the main reason for their success,” he said.

Reflecting on their collaborations, the superstar added, “In the 1980s, there was ‘Murattu Kalai’, which was made on a huge scale in Tamil. In the 2000s, it was ‘Sivaji’, again a grand project. He was also in talks with me to make another film in the 2020s, but that did not happen.”

Expressing deep sorrow over the loss, Rajinikanth said, “I offer my heartfelt condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace.”
Veteran producer AVM Saravanan, aged 86, passed away due to age-related ailments, just a day after celebrating his birthday. As the driving force behind the prestigious AVM banner, he shaped generations of Indian cinema and produced numerous landmark films. His passing has cast a shadow over the Tamil film industry, with several production houses cancelling planned events as a mark of respect.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin was among the many who paid their respects to the legendary figure, remembered as a visionary, mentor, and pioneer of Tamil cinema.