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'{{Short description|2024 Indian film by Dhanush}} {{Use dmy dates|date=March 2024}} {{Use Indian English|date=March 2024}} {{Infobox film | image = Raayan poster.jpg | caption = Theatrical release poster | director = [[Dhanush]] | writer = [[Dhanush]] | producer = [[Kalanithi Maran]] | starring = {{ubl | Dhanush | [[Dushara Vijayan]] | [[S. J. Suryah]] | [[Prakash Raj]] | [[Selvaraghavan]] | [[Sundeep Kishan]] | [[Kalidas Jayaram]] | [[Aparna Balamurali]] | [[Varalaxmi Sarathkumar]] | [[Saravanan (actor)|Saravanan]] | [[Divya Pillai]] | [[Dileepan]] }} | cinematography = [[Om Prakash (cinematographer)|Om Prakash]] | editing = [[Prasanna GK]] | music = [[A. R. Rahman]] | studio = [[Sun Pictures]] | distributor = [[#Distribution|see below]] | released = {{film date|df=y|2024|07|26}} | runtime = 145 minutes<ref>{{Cite web |title=Raayan 2024: Release date, trailer, cast, crew, plot, censor, runtime, OTT rights and more |url=https://www.ottplay.com/news/raayan-2024-release-date-trailer-cast-crew-plot-censor-runtime-ott-rights-and-more/a650e2daac596 |access-date=2024-07-26 |website=OTTPlay |language=en |archive-date=27 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240727110124/https://www.ottplay.com/news/raayan-2024-release-date-trailer-cast-crew-plot-censor-runtime-ott-rights-and-more/a650e2daac596 |url-status=live }}</ref> | country = India | language = Tamil | budget = {{estimation}} {{INR}}100 crore<ref>{{Cite web|title=Dhanush's Raayan release date postponed, set to hit theatres in July|url=https://www.business-standard.com/entertainment/dhanush-s-raayan-release-date-postponed-set-to-hit-theatres-in-july-124061100551_1.html|website=[[Business Standard]]|date=11 June 2024|access-date=19 July 2024|archive-date=11 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240611110727/https://www.business-standard.com/entertainment/dhanush-s-raayan-release-date-postponed-set-to-hit-theatres-in-july-124061100551_1.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-07-10 |title='Raayan': Dhanush's 50th film gets A certificate, check out its runtime |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/raayan-dhanushs-50th-film-gets-a-certificate-check-out-its-runtime-2564649-2024-07-10 |access-date=2024-07-10 |website=India Today |language=en |archive-date=10 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240710145212/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/raayan-dhanushs-50th-film-gets-a-certificate-check-out-its-runtime-2564649-2024-07-10 |url-status=live }}</ref> | gross = {{estimation}} {{INR}}167 crore<ref name=":0" /> }} '''''Raayan''''' is a 2024 Indian [[Tamil language|Tamil]]-language [[neo-noir]] [[action drama film]] directed by [[Dhanush]], in his second directorial venture, and produced by [[Kalanithi Maran]] under [[Sun Pictures]]. The film stars Dhanush in the titular role, alongside an [[ensemble cast]] which includes [[Dushara Vijayan]], [[S. J. Suryah]], [[Selvaraghavan]], [[Kalidas Jayaram]], [[Sundeep Kishan]], [[Prakash Raj]], [[Aparna Balamurali]], [[Varalaxmi Sarathkumar]], [[Saravanan (actor)|Saravanan]], [[Dileepan]], [[Divya Pillai]] and others. In the film, a fast-food hotel owner in [[North Chennai]] struggles to protect his family when they inadvertently get muddled in a war between two rival gangs resulting in unforeseen circumstances. The film was officially announced in January 2023 under the tentative title ''D50,''{{Efn|The project was also referred under the [[working title]] ''DD2'', as it also is Dhanush's second directorial venture.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-07-06 |title=D50: Dhanush is Bald, Poses Shirtless in DD2 Poster, Movie Commences Filming |url=https://www.news18.com/movies/d50-dhanush-is-bald-poses-shirtless-in-dd2-poster-movie-commences-filming-8261941.html |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=News18 |language=en |archive-date=2 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230802100628/https://www.news18.com/movies/d50-dhanush-is-bald-poses-shirtless-in-dd2-poster-movie-commences-filming-8261941.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Dhanush Announces D50 Shoot With Special Poster; Fans Can't Keep Calm {{!}} India.com |url=https://www.india.com/entertainment/dhanush-d50-shoot-bald-look-new-film-poster-second-directorial-sun-pictures-stst-6151396/ |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=www.india.com |language=en |archive-date=15 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240515202958/https://www.india.com/entertainment/dhanush-d50-shoot-bald-look-new-film-poster-second-directorial-sun-pictures-stst-6151396/ |url-status=live }}</ref>}} as it is Dhanush's 50th film as a leading actor, and the official title was announced in February 2024. [[Principal photography]] commenced in July 2023 at [[East Coast Road]] in [[Chennai]] along with Adhitya Ram Studios, where most of the filming took place at, which was again followed by another schedule held in [[Karaikudi]], and [[Wrap (filmmaking)|wrapped]] by mid-December. The film’s music was composed by [[A. R. Rahman]], cinematography was handled by [[Om Prakash (cinematographer)|Om Prakash]] and the editing by [[Prasanna GK]]. ''Raayan'' was initially scheduled to release on 13 June 2024, but was later postponed. The film got released worldwide on 26 July 2024, coinciding with the week of Dhanush's birthday. It received mixed to positive reviews from critics, with praise for its music, cinematography, direction and the performances of the cast, while the plot and post-interval portions received criticism. The film earned over ₹167 crore worldwide, becoming a commercial success at the box office and emerged as the [[List of Tamil films of 2024|second highest-grossing Tamil film of 2024]] and the highest-grossing [[A certificate|A-rated]] Tamil film of all-time. == Plot == Kathavaraayan "Raayan", a [[Food truck|food-truck]] owner in [[North Chennai]], lives with his siblings consisting of two younger brothers Muthuvelraayan "Muthu" and Manickavelraayan "Manickam" and younger sister Durga, whom Raayan dotes on. Raayan has been taking care of his siblings since childhood as their parents never returned. Manickam is a college student, while Muthu is a hot-headed [[Alcoholism|alcoholic]] who is in love with Meghalai. Durai and Sethuraman "Sethu" are rival [[Gangster|gangsters]] in the area who have a feud with each other after Durai killed Sethu's father. R. Sargunam, a recently transferred [[Commissioner of Police (India)|police commissioner]], wants to create a conflict between Sethu and Durai and kill them both in an [[Encounter killing|encounter]]. One day, Sargunam learns that Durai's son is in a bar and hires a goon to kill him. Muthu, who was also present at the bar, instead ends up killing him after getting into a fight with him. Although most people believe that Sethu killed Durai's son, Durai finds out about Muthu and tells Raayan to hand over Muthu within 24 hours. However, Raayan, Muthu, and Manickam kill Durai and his gang. Sethu, who is confused about Durai's death, finds about Raayan and his brothers' involvement in his death and calls Raayan for a meeting. He requests Raayan to join his side and promises him and his family protection from the police, but Raayan refuses the request. Sethu begins to threaten Raayan, who in-turn, also begins to threaten Sethu in his style. Sethu tries to assassinate Raayan, but he manages to kill his henchmen. At that time, Raayan plans Durga's wedding with a government employee and takes responsibility of the expense around {{INR}}5 lakhs, leaving him in dire need of money. The groom's family asks for dowry, for which Raayan agrees to sell his hotel and hand over their entire bank savings to the groom's family. Raayan criticizes Muthu for being unemployed, which leads him to join Sethu’s gang. Raayan plans to kill Sethu before Durga’s marriage, where he enters Sethu's second wife's Annam's house. However, Raayan finds Durga tied up at the house and realizes it as a trap, where he fights Sethu's henchmen. Durga is later abducted and assaulted by Sethu's henchman Guru, while Raayan gets stabbed by his brothers. Durga saves Raayan by admitting in a nearby clinic. Sethu's gang tries to kill Raayan in the clinic, but is saved by Durga and Raayan's father figure Sekhar. The trio escape to an isolated house far from the city and Durga learns about Muthu and Manickam's betrayal. Meanwhile, Muthu and Manickam begin to work for Sethu, while Meghalai gives birth to Muthu's child. Raayan recovers from his injuries and kidnaps Annam, where he tells Guru to surrender to him as he was behind Durga's assault. Sethu accepts and Guru gets killed by Durga. Muthu and Manickam want to amend things with Raayan and Durga, where they request Sekhar to arrange a meeting with Raayan and plead for mercy. Sethu uses this opportunity to make Sekhar reveal Raayan's whereabouts, but he refuses and Sethu kills him. Seeing all this, Sargunam calls Raayan and Sethu for a compromise and secretly plans to kill them. When the meeting is arranged, Sargunam changes the plan as there are many goons nearby and candidly makes a deal with Raayan that he should kill Sethu and his gang, while he would arrange new government IDs to both Raayan and Durga so they can lead a peaceful life far away from Chennai. During [[Bhogi]] celebrations, Durga stabs and kills Manickam for betraying Raayan. In the ensuing fight, Raayan kills Muthu, Sethu and his gang brutally. Sargunam waits for Raayan with the money and to kill him so that Sargunam's deals would not be leaked. However, Raayan figures out his plan and decides not to accept his money. Meghalai gives her child away to Raayan and Durga citing that she does not a want a child of his bloodline. Raayan and Durga pack their belongings and leave Chennai for a peaceful life. == Cast == {{Cast listing| * [[Dhanush]] as Kathavaraayan "Raayan" ** Rakul as young Raayan * [[Dushara Vijayan]] as Durga, Raayan's younger sister ** Dharsikha as young Durga * [[S. J. Suryah]] as Sethuraman "Sethu" * [[Selvaraghavan]] as Sekhar, Raayan's father figure * [[Prakash Raj]] as [[Police Commissioner|Commissioner]] R. Sargunam * [[Sundeep Kishan]] as Muthuvelraayan "Muthu", Raayan's younger brother ** Avanish as young Muthu * [[Kalidas Jayaram]] as Manickavelraayan "Manickam", Raayan's younger brother ** Dhanush Karthik as young Manickam * [[Aparna Balamurali]] as Meghalai, Muthu's wife * [[Varalaxmi Sarathkumar]] as Sethu's first wife * [[Saravanan (actor)|Saravanan]] as Durai * [[Dileepan]] as Guru, Sethu's henchman * [[Ilavarasu]] as Meghalai's father * [[Divya Pillai]] as Annam Sethuraman, Sethu's second wife * [[Aranthangi Nisha]] as Sargunam's assistant * Dr. Karthik Anjaneyan as Anjaneyan * [[Devadarshini]] as Doctor * [[Madhan Bob]] as Eegaiarasan * [[Namo Narayana]] as Jagannathan * [[Cell Murugan]] as Bartender *Geetha Kailasam as Durai's wife * Naveen Krubhakar as Manickam's rival in college * Anbu Mayilsamy as Sethu's henchmen * Kiccha Ravi as Kathavaraayan's father * M. Soundarya Saravanan as Kathavaraayan's mother }} == Production == === Development === On 29 December 2017, [[Dhanush]] announced that for his second directorial after [[Pa Paandi|''Pa Paandi'']] (2017), he would collaborate with Hema Rukmani and Murali Ramasamy, headers of [[Thenandal Studio Limited]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=IANS |date=2017-12-29 |title=Dhanush's next directorial with Sri Thenandal Films |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/dhanushs-next-directorial-with-sri-thenandal-films/article22326386.ece |access-date=2024-05-15 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=14 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221214200520/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/dhanushs-next-directorial-with-sri-thenandal-films/article22326386.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> He further stated that he would play the lead and the production would begin the following year.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Native |first=Digital |date=2017-12-29 |title=Dhanush to play the lead in second directorial venture |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/flix/dhanush-play-lead-second-directorial-venture-73912 |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=The News Minute |language=en |archive-date=17 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240517082739/https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?creatorScreenName=migrator&dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-0&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=946405197215014913&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thenewsminute.com%2Fflix%2Fdhanush-play-lead-second-directorial-venture-73912&sessionId=1cd7522dd4196caf272c42f3433235fac06fe1dc&siteScreenName=thenewsminute&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-12-29 |title=Dhanush spills the beans on his second directorial venture |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/dhanush-spills-bean-on-his-second-directorial-venture-1118310-2017-12-29 |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=India Today |language=en |archive-date=25 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231225083419/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/dhanush-spills-bean-on-his-second-directorial-venture-1118310-2017-12-29 |url-status=live }}</ref> To which, on 7 September 2018, a [[Muhurat shot|muhurat]] puja was held in [[Chennai]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=2018-09-07 |title=Dhanush's second directorial goes on the floors |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dhanushs-second-directorial-goes-on-the-floors/articleshow/65716549.cms |access-date=2024-05-28 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=28 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221128100013/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dhanushs-second-directorial-goes-on-the-floors/articleshow/65716549.cms |url-status=live }}</ref> Touted to be a [[Multiple-language version|bilingual]] film released in [[Tamil language|Tamil]] and [[Telugu language|Telugu]]-languages, it would feature [[Nagarjuna (actor)|Nagarjuna]], [[Aditi Rao Hydari]], [[S. J. Suryah]], [[R. Sarathkumar]] and [[Srikanth (actor, born 1979)|Srikanth]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Native |first=Digital |date=2018-09-07 |title=Nagarjuna to star in Dhanush's second directorial |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/flix/nagarjuna-star-dhanushs-second-directorial-87962 |access-date=2024-05-28 |website=The News Minute |language=en |archive-date=28 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240528171244/https://www.thenewsminute.com/flix/nagarjuna-star-dhanushs-second-directorial-87962 |url-status=live }}</ref> Music composer [[Sean Roldan]], cinematographer [[Om Prakash (cinematographer)|Om Prakash]] and editor [[Prasanna GK]] were brought on board. Rukmani stated "It's an impressive story and is Dhanush's dream project that he's had in mind for a long time. He's very passionate about the film and when we heard the script, we understood why", during the press launch of the venture.<ref>{{Cite news |date=7 September 2018 |title=Details of Dhanush's second directorial bi-lingual venture #DD2 revealed! |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/details-of-dhanushs-second-directorial-bi-lingual-venture-dd2-revealed/articleshow/65717168.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231225054020/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/details-of-dhanushs-second-directorial-bi-lingual-venture-dd2-revealed/articleshow/65717168.cms?from=mdr |archive-date=25 December 2023 |access-date=20 December 2023 |work=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=8 September 2018 |title=Dhanush's second directorial starring Nagarjuna, Sarath Kumar goes on floors |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/tamil/2018/sep/08/dhanushs-second-directorial-starring-nagarjuna-sarath-kumar-goes-on-floors-1868991.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190905050628/http://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/tamil/2018/sep/08/dhanushs-second-directorial-starring-nagarjuna-sarath-kumar-goes-on-floors-1868991.html |archive-date=5 September 2019 |access-date=20 December 2023 |website=[[The New Indian Express]]}}</ref> [[Tentatively titled]] ''DD2'', the principal photography began the same month.<ref>{{Cite news |date=12 October 2018 |title=Anu Emmanuel roped in to Dhanush's second directorial |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/anu-emmanuel-roped-in-to-dhanushs-second-directorial/articleshow/65820921.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231225054025/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/anu-emmanuel-roped-in-to-dhanushs-second-directorial/articleshow/65820921.cms?from=mdr |archive-date=25 December 2023 |access-date=20 December 2023 |work=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> In early March 2019, reporters claimed that the venture was shelved, citing that the venture was only shot in few bits, mainly due to the cast's schedule. Later, it was reported that it was not shelved, but was instead set on hold, as Dhanush was busy filming for [[Asuran (2019 film)|''Asuran'']] (2019).<ref>{{Cite news |date=2 March 2019 |title=Dhanush's second directorial dropped? |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dhanushs-second-directorial-dropped/articleshow/68229660.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231225054023/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dhanushs-second-directorial-dropped/articleshow/68229660.cms?from=mdr |archive-date=25 December 2023 |access-date=20 December 2023 |work=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> In June 2020, Dhanush's elder brother, [[Selvaraghavan]], was reported to have been approached by the actor to direct a part of venture, as Dhanush was busy with his current commitments.<ref>{{Cite news |date=27 June 2020 |title=Selvaraghavan to direct a part of Dhanush's second directorial? |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/selvaraghavan-to-direct-a-part-of-dhanushs-second-directorial/articleshow/76656836.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220329151827/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/selvaraghavan-to-direct-a-part-of-dhanushs-second-directorial/articleshow/76656836.cms?from=mdr |archive-date=29 March 2022 |access-date=20 December 2023 |work=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> The project was later put on stall. However, it was reported that it would begin after the [[COVID-19 pandemic]] ends, which was later proved to be false.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Features |first=C. E. |date=2020-06-10 |title=Dhanush to resume work on directorial post lockdown? |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/stories/news/2020/Jun/10/dhanush-to-resume-work-on-directorial-post-lockdown-18853.html |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=Cinema Express |language=en |archive-date=16 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240516031337/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/stories/news/2020/Jun/10/dhanush-to-resume-work-on-directorial-post-lockdown-18853.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Following two years, in 2023, it was reported that instead of reviving the script, Dhanush would reportedly write a new story, to be funded by [[Kalanithi Maran]] of [[Sun Pictures]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=5 January 2023 |title=Vishnu Vishal to star in Dhanush's directorial? |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/vishnu-vishal-to-star-in-dhanushs-directorial/articleshow/96752887.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230802100634/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/vishnu-vishal-to-star-in-dhanushs-directorial/articleshow/96752887.cms?from=mdr |archive-date=2 August 2023 |access-date=2 August 2023 |work=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> The production house publicly announced the project on 18 January, and was tentatively titled as ''D50''.<ref>{{Cite news |date=18 January 2023 |title=Dhanush's 'D50' officially announced; touted to be a gangster drama |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dhanushs-d50-officially-announced-touted-to-be-a-gangster-drama/articleshow/97094659.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230802100632/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dhanushs-d50-officially-announced-touted-to-be-a-gangster-drama/articleshow/97094659.cms?from=mdr |archive-date=2 August 2023 |access-date=2 August 2023 |work=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> The film's official title, ''Raayan,'' was revealed on 19 February 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |date=19 February 2024 |title=Dhanush's 'D50' is titled 'Raayan'. Actor's first-look poster out |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/dhanushs-d50-is-titled-raayan-actors-first-look-poster-out-2504232-2024-02-19 |access-date=19 February 2024 |website=[[India Today]] |language=en |archive-date=23 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240223034941/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/dhanushs-d50-is-titled-raayan-actors-first-look-poster-out-2504232-2024-02-19 |url-status=live}}</ref> === Casting === Dhanush would sport a tonsured head and stubble with a thick handlebar mustache for his character.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Correspondent |first=D. C. |date=2024-05-10 |title=Dhanush's new avatar in Raayan intriguing |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/thala-vanchi-eragade-song-from-dhanushs-raayan-out-893338 |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=[[Deccan Chronicle]] |language=en |archive-date=15 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240515181147/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/thala-vanchi-eragade-song-from-dhanushs-raayan-out-893338 |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Sundeep Kishan]] was cast in an important role,<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-04-14 |title='Raayan' first single to be out soon; confirms Dhanush |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/raayan-first-single-to-be-out-soon-confirms-dhanush/articleshow/109287898.cms |access-date=2024-05-15 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=16 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240516160005/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/raayan-first-single-to-be-out-soon-confirms-dhanush/articleshow/109287898.cms |url-status=live }}</ref> collaborating with Dhanush again after they previously had collaborated for [[Captain Miller (film)|''Captain Miller'']] (2024).<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-05-25 |title=Dhanush's directorial film D50 gets bigger as Sundeep Kishan joins cast |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/dhanushs-directorial-film-d50-gets-bigger-as-sundeep-kishan-joins-cast-2384006-2023-05-25 |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=India Today |language=en |archive-date=27 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240227094518/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/dhanushs-directorial-film-d50-gets-bigger-as-sundeep-kishan-joins-cast-2384006-2023-05-25 |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Kalidas Jayaram]] was confirmed to play an important role,<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-07-06 |title=Kalidas Jayaram confirms being a part of Dhanush's 'D50' |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kalidas-jayaram-confirms-being-a-part-of-dhanushs-d50/articleshow/101537949.cms |access-date=2024-05-15 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=19 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230719174332/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kalidas-jayaram-confirms-being-a-part-of-dhanushs-d50/articleshow/101537949.cms |url-status=live }}</ref> replacing [[Vishnu Vishal]] who was initially approached for the role but had to decline due to busy schedules, including his film with director Ram Kumar and [[Aishwarya Rajinikanth]]'s [[Lal Salaam (2024 film)|''Lal Salaam'']] (2024).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Vishnu Vishal is not a part of Dhanush's 'D50'. Here's why {{!}} Exclusive |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/dhanush-d50-vishnu-vishal-is-not-a-part-of-dhanushs-d-50-heres-why-exclusive-2407698-2023-07-17 |access-date=22 February 2024 |website=India Today |date=17 July 2023 |language=en |archive-date=10 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230810225559/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/dhanush-d50-vishnu-vishal-is-not-a-part-of-dhanushs-d-50-heres-why-exclusive-2407698-2023-07-17 |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Dushara Vijayan]] also joined the film in an important role,<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-02-25 |title=Dushara Vijayan: 'Raayan' is a goal come true moment for me! |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dushara-vijayan-raayan-is-a-goal-come-true-moment-for-me/articleshow/107981018.cms |access-date=2024-05-15 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=15 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240515181142/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dushara-vijayan-raayan-is-a-goal-come-true-moment-for-me/articleshow/107981018.cms |url-status=live }}</ref> whilst S. J. Suryah was also cast in an important role.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-12-25 |title=SJ Suryah praises his 'D50' director, saying, 'Dhanush is a super director' |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/sj-suryah-praises-his-d50-director-saying-dhanush-is-a-super-director/articleshow/106267759.cms |access-date=2024-05-15 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=15 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240515181151/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/sj-suryah-praises-his-d50-director-saying-dhanush-is-a-super-director/articleshow/106267759.cms |url-status=live }}</ref> He was also cast in the initial second directorial of Dhanush, which was later shelved. [[Selvaraghavan]],<ref>{{Cite news |last=Bureau |first=The Hindu |date=22 February 2024 |title=SJ Suryah joins the cast of Dhanush's 'Raayan'; Selvaraghavan confirms being a part of the film |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/sj-suryah-joins-the-cast-of-dhanushs-raayan-selvaraghavan-confirms-being-a-part-of-the-film/article67874194.ece |access-date=22 February 2024 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=22 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240222112110/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/sj-suryah-joins-the-cast-of-dhanushs-raayan-selvaraghavan-confirms-being-a-part-of-the-film/article67874194.ece |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Prakash Raj]], [[Aparna Balamurali]],<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-02-25 |title=Aparna Balamurali on working with Dhanush in 'Raayan': 'From being a huge fan to working with you, is a dream come true! You are an inspiration sir' - See post |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/aparna-balamurali-on-working-with-dhanush-in-raayan/articleshow/107988633.cms |access-date=2024-05-15 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=15 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240515181152/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/aparna-balamurali-on-working-with-dhanush-in-raayan/articleshow/107988633.cms |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Varalaxmi Sarathkumar]],<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-02-27 |title=Varalaxmi Sarathkumar joins the 'Raayan' world! |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/varalaxmi-sarathkumar-joins-raayan-cast-dhanushs-upcoming-directorial-creates-sensation/articleshow/108035324.cms |access-date=2024-05-15 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=20 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240320173241/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/varalaxmi-sarathkumar-joins-raayan-cast-dhanushs-upcoming-directorial-creates-sensation/articleshow/108035324.cms |url-status=live }}</ref> and [[Saravanan (actor)|Saravanan]] would play prominent roles.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-02-28 |title=Raayan: Dhanush's directorial comeback elevates excitement with Saravanan joining the cast |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/south/raayan-dhanushs-directorial-comeback-elevates-excitement-with-saravanan-joining-the-cast-1282188 |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=PINKVILLA |language=en |archive-date=15 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240515181151/https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/south/raayan-dhanushs-directorial-comeback-elevates-excitement-with-saravanan-joining-the-cast-1282188 |url-status=live }}</ref> Varalaxmi would collaborate with Dhanush again after [[Maari 2|''Maari 2'']] (2018) with this film.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-02-26 |title=Raayan: Dhanush starrer gets another exciting addition as Varalaxmi Sarathkumar joins cast |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/south/dhanushs-raayan-gets-another-exciting-addition-as-varalaxmi-sarathkumar-onboards-the-project-1281783 |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=PINKVILLA |language=en |archive-date=15 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240515181156/https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/south/dhanushs-raayan-gets-another-exciting-addition-as-varalaxmi-sarathkumar-onboards-the-project-1281783 |url-status=live }}</ref> All of their inclusion were confirmed by the production house in late-February 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-02-27 |title=Raayan: Prakash Raj, Aparna Balamurali and Varalaxmi Sarathkumar join Dhanush's film |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/tamil/raayan-prakash-raj-aparna-balamurali-and-varalaxmi-sarathkumar-join-dhanushs-film-9184225/ |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=29 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240229010444/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/tamil/raayan-prakash-raj-aparna-balamurali-and-varalaxmi-sarathkumar-join-dhanushs-film-9184225/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Dhanush had approached musician [[Deva (composer)|Deva]] to play the antagonist in the film as he wanted someone speaking the [[North Chennai]] dialect, however, Deva declined the role.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 September 2023 |title=D 50: Dhanush approaches veteran musician Deva to play THIS role in his second directorial venture |url=https://www.ottplay.com/news/d-50-dhanush-approaches-veteran-musician-deva-to-play-this-role-in-his-second-directorial-venture/dfff0786f183 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230903133135/https://www.ottplay.com/news/d-50-dhanush-approaches-veteran-musician-deva-to-play-this-role-in-his-second-directorial-venture/dfff0786f183 |archive-date=3 September 2023 |access-date=2 September 2023 |website=[[OTTPlay]]}}</ref> === Filming === {{Multiple images | image1 = Chennai.jpg | footer = Most of the filming took place at [[Chennai]]. }} [[Principal photography]] began with an inaugural [[Muhurat shot|puja]] ceremony on 5 July 2023 at [[East Coast Road]] in Chennai with the presence of the film's cast and crew. Filming also went on there for a while,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rajaraman |first=Kaushik |date=2023-06-13 |title=Dhanush cuts his hair short for D50; Aparna Balamurali on board |url=https://www.dtnext.in/news/cinema/dhanush-cuts-his-hair-short-for-d50-aparna-balamurali-on-board-718112 |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=www.dtnext.in |language=en |archive-date=16 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240516031337/https://www.dtnext.in/news/cinema/dhanush-cuts-his-hair-short-for-d50-aparna-balamurali-on-board-718112 |url-status=live }}</ref> before they moved to a massive set with around 500 houses at Adithya Ram Studios in ECR,Chennai, where the rest of the schedule continued to be shot at.<ref>{{Cite news |date=5 July 2023 |title=Dhanush's 'D50' shooting begins today |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dhanushs-d50-shooting-begins-today/articleshow/101520454.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230802100633/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dhanushs-d50-shooting-begins-today/articleshow/101520454.cms?from=mdr |archive-date=2 August 2023 |access-date=2 August 2023 |work=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> The schedule featured scenes involving Suryah and Sundeep.<ref>{{Cite tweet |number=1681850034965602305 |user=CinemaWithAB |title=#D50 shooting current happening in AdityaRam Studios with a massive set of 600 houses |first=Amurtha |last=Bharathi |access-date=2 September 2023}}</ref> The second schedule commenced in mid-November in [[Karaikudi]], which went on for a week. The team had invested {{INRconvert|30|c}} in the sets of the backdrop of [[Royapuram]], where the events in the film would mostly take place at.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-07-26 |title=Dhanush's 'Raayan' makers recreated Royapuram sets by spending a whopping price; Deets inside |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dhanushs-raayan-makers-recreated-royapuram-sets-by-spending-a-whopping-price-deets-inside/articleshow/112037696.cms |access-date=2024-07-26 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=27 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240727040918/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dhanushs-raayan-makers-recreated-royapuram-sets-by-spending-a-whopping-price-deets-inside/articleshow/112037696.cms |url-status=live }}</ref> The filming reached near ending, as stated by Dhanush, on 1 October.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-10-01 |title='D 50' final schedule shooting; Dhanush shares a new post |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/d-50-final-schedule-shooting-dhanush-shares-a-new-post/articleshow/104080877.cms |access-date=2024-05-15 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=15 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240515195314/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/d-50-final-schedule-shooting-dhanush-shares-a-new-post/articleshow/104080877.cms |url-status=live }}</ref> On 14 December, Dhanush tweeted that the shooting had [[Wrap (filmmaking)|wrapped]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=15 December 2023 |title=Dhanush's second directorial 'D50' shooting wrapped up |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dhanushs-second-directorial-d50-shooting-wrapped-up/articleshow/106010644.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231221021139/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dhanushs-second-directorial-d50-shooting-wrapped-up/articleshow/106010644.cms?from=mdr |archive-date=21 December 2023 |access-date=20 December 2023 |work=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> === Post-production === Sumesh Gopal and Anish Dayanandan are the [[Visual effects supervisor|visual effects supervisors]],<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-08-16 |title=Digibricks VFX Studio triumphs with Kerala Film State Award for Outstanding Visual Effects in 'Vazhakku' |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/digibricks-vfx-studio-triumphs-with-kerala-film-state-award-for-outstanding-visual-effects-in-vazhakku/articleshow/102761360.cms |access-date=2024-07-09 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=9 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240709203913/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/digibricks-vfx-studio-triumphs-with-kerala-film-state-award-for-outstanding-visual-effects-in-vazhakku/articleshow/102761360.cms |url-status=live }}</ref> under Digital Bricks Entertainment Pvt Ltd., the film's principal visual effects studio. The dubbing began works in late February 2024,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Raayan plot revealed! Fans claim that the storyline of Dhanush-starrer is similar to THIS Vijay movie |url=https://www.ottplay.com/news/raayan-plot-revealed-fans-claim-that-the-storyline-of-dhanush-starrer-is-similar-to-this-vijay-movie/d302beb838308 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=OTTPlay |language=en |archive-date=9 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240709203916/https://www.ottplay.com/news/raayan-plot-revealed-fans-claim-that-the-storyline-of-dhanush-starrer-is-similar-to-this-vijay-movie/d302beb838308 |url-status=live }}</ref> and was completed by early March.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Raayan - Dhanush's son Yatra opts for an unconventional debut role? Here's what we know |url=https://www.ottplay.com/news/raayan-dhanushs-son-yatra-opts-for-an-unconventional-debut-role-heres-what-we-know/83eaca17b228 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=OTTPlay |language=en |archive-date=9 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240709203914/https://www.ottplay.com/news/raayan-dhanushs-son-yatra-opts-for-an-unconventional-debut-role-heres-what-we-know/83eaca17b228 |url-status=live }}</ref> Rahman concluded the [[Re-recording mixer|re-recording]] session on 28 May, which was confirmed by Dhanush through his social media pages.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-05-28 |title='Raayan': Dhanush gives his fans a sneak peek into the making of background score with AR Rahman - See photo |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/raayan-dhanush-gives-his-fans-a-sneak-peek-into-the-making-of-background-score-with-ar-rahman-see-photo/articleshow/110506207.cms |access-date=2024-07-09 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=9 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240709203913/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/raayan-dhanush-gives-his-fans-a-sneak-peek-into-the-making-of-background-score-with-ar-rahman-see-photo/articleshow/110506207.cms |url-status=live }}</ref> == Music == {{Infobox album | name = Raayan | type = soundtrack | artist = [[A. R. Rahman]] | released = 6 July 2024 | recorded = July–December 2023 | studio = [[Panchathan Record Inn]], [[Chennai]]<br />Panchathan Studios, [[Mumbai]] | genre = [[Feature film soundtrack]] | length = {{Duration|m=18|s=05}} | language = [[Tamil-language|Tamil]] | label = [[Sun Pictures]] | producer = [[A. R. Rahman]] | prev_title = [[Amar Singh Chamkila (film)|Amar Singh Chamkila]] | prev_year = 2024 | year = 2024 | next_title = [[Thug Life (upcoming film)|Thug Life]] | next_year = 2024 | misc = {{Singles| |single1 = Adangaatha Asuran |single1date = 9 May 2024 |single2 = Water Packet |single2date = 24 May 2024 |single3 = Raayan Rumble |single3date = 5 July 2024 }} }} The music and background score is composed by A. R. Rahman, in his fourth collaboration with Dhanush after ''[[Raanjhanaa]]'' (2013), ''[[Maryan (film)|Maryan]]'' (2013), and ''[[Atrangi Re]]'' (2021).<ref>{{Cite news |date=21 February 2023 |title=AR Rahman to compose music for 'D 50' |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/ar-rahman-to-compose-music-for-d-50/articleshow/98125682.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230802100633/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/ar-rahman-to-compose-music-for-d-50/articleshow/98125682.cms?from=mdr |archive-date=2 August 2023 |access-date=2 August 2023 |work=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> The audio rights were acquired by Sun Pictures's own music label. The first single, "Adangaatha Asuran", was released on 9 May 2024,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-05-06 |title=Dhanush confirms June release for Raayan; first single by AR Rahman to release soon |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/tamil-cinema/dhanush-confirms-june-release-for-raayan-first-single-by-ar-rahman-to-release-soon-101714999166261.html |access-date=2024-05-06 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=17 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240517082626/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/tamil-cinema/dhanush-confirms-june-release-for-raayan-first-single-by-ar-rahman-to-release-soon-101714999166261.html |url-status=live }}</ref> the second single "Water Packet" on 24 May,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Features |first=C. E. |date=2024-05-22 |title=Raayan's second single to be out on this date |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/tamil/news/2024/May/22/raayans-second-single-to-be-out-on-this-date |access-date=2024-05-23 |website=Cinema Express |language=en |archive-date=23 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240523060606/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/tamil/news/2024/May/22/raayans-second-single-to-be-out-on-this-date |url-status=live }}</ref> and the third single, "Raayan Rumble" released on 5 July.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Features |first=C. E. |date=2024-07-04 |title=Raayan third single titled Raayan Rumble, to be out tomorrow |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/tamil/news/2024/Jul/04/raayan-third-single-titled-raayan-rumble-to-be-out-tomorrow |access-date=2024-07-05 |website=Cinema Express |language=en |archive-date=6 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240806133745/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/tamil/news/2024/Jul/04/raayan-third-single-titled-raayan-rumble-to-be-out-tomorrow |url-status=live }}</ref> The audio launch was held on 6 July 2024 at [[Sri Sai Ram Engineering College]] in [[Chennai]], releasing the album.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dhanush's Raayan audio launch to take place on this date? |url=https://www.ottplay.com/news/dhanushs-raayan-audio-launch-to-take-place-on-this-date/61f0e40a18482 |access-date=2024-07-04 |website=OTTPlay |language=en |archive-date=16 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240716235254/https://www.ottplay.com/news/dhanushs-raayan-audio-launch-to-take-place-on-this-date/61f0e40a18482 |url-status=live }}</ref> {{Track listing | extra_column = Singer(s) | title1 = Adangaatha Asuran | length1 = 4:04 | lyrics1 = [[Dhanush]] | extra1 = [[A. R. Rahman]], Dhanush | title2 = Water Packet | length2 = 4:06 | lyrics2 = Gana Kadhar | extra2 = [[Santhosh Narayanan]], [[Shweta Mohan]] | title3 = Raayan Rumble | length3 = 3:31 | lyrics3 = [[Arivu]] | extra3 = [[Arivu]] | title4 = Odatha Da Odatha Da | length4 = 2:46 | lyrics4 = [[Dinesh Kanagaratnam|ADK]] | extra4 = [[Dinesh Kanagaratnam|ADK]] | title5 = Oh Raaya | length5 = 3:27 | lyrics5 = Dhanush | extra5 = A. R. Rahman, Ganavya Duraisamy | total_length = 18:05 }} == Marketing == The film's first look poster was released on 19 February 2024, revealing the film's title.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-07-15 |title=Dhanush's 'Raayan' trailer to be out on THIS date |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dhanushs-raayan-trailer-to-be-out-on-this-date/articleshow/111747780.cms |access-date=2024-07-16 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=16 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240716112053/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dhanushs-raayan-trailer-to-be-out-on-this-date/articleshow/111747780.cms |url-status=live }}</ref> From 21 February to 27 February, a first look character poster of Suryah, Selvaraghavan, Prakash Raj, Dushara, Aparna, Varalaxmi and Saravanan were released by the production house.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-02-27 |title='Raayan': Dhanush drops character poster of Saravanan from his upcoming directorial venture |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dhanush-drops-character-poster-of-saravanan-from-his-upcoming-directorial-venture-raayan/articleshow/108048603.cms |access-date=2024-07-16 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=16 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240716112054/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dhanush-drops-character-poster-of-saravanan-from-his-upcoming-directorial-venture-raayan/articleshow/108048603.cms |url-status=live }}</ref> The film's trailer was released on 16 July.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-07-15 |title=Dhanush's 'Raayan' trailer to be out on THIS date |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dhanushs-raayan-trailer-to-be-out-on-this-date/articleshow/111747780.cms |access-date=2024-07-16 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=16 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240716112053/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dhanushs-raayan-trailer-to-be-out-on-this-date/articleshow/111747780.cms |url-status=live }}</ref> ==Release== === Theatrical === ''Raayan'' was initially scheduled to release on 13 June 2024 in theaters, but was postponed due to reasons unknown.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Bureau |first=The Hindu |date=2024-05-10 |title='Raayan': Dhanush's 50th film confirms release in June |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/raayan-dhanushs-50th-film-confirms-release-in-june/article68161430.ece |access-date=2024-06-05 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=26 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240526051858/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/raayan-dhanushs-50th-film-confirms-release-in-june/article68161430.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> It was released worldwide on 26 July 2024, two days prior to Dhanush's birthday, in theatres.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Raayan: Release date of Dhanush's film gets postponed |url=https://www.moviecrow.com/News/33313/raayan-release-date-of-dhanushs-film-gets-postponed |access-date=2024-06-05 |website=www.moviecrow.com |archive-date=1 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240601094009/https://www.moviecrow.com/News/33313/raayan-release-date-of-dhanushs-film-gets-postponed |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-06-10 |title=Raayan new release date: Dhanush-led action thriller to arrive in theaters two weeks after Kamal Haasan's Indian 2 |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/south/raayan-new-release-date-dhanush-led-action-thriller-to-arrive-in-theaters-two-weeks-after-kamal-haasans-indian-2-1315209 |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=PINKVILLA |language=en |archive-date=10 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240610192016/https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/south/raayan-new-release-date-dhanush-led-action-thriller-to-arrive-in-theaters-two-weeks-after-kamal-haasans-indian-2-1315209 |url-status=live }}</ref> Apart from its original Tamil language, dubbed versions in the Telugu and Hindi languages were also released.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-05-06 |title=Raayan release date and first song: Makers of Dhanush starrer are set 'to raise D volume' and how |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/south/raayan-release-date-and-first-song-makers-of-dhanush-starrer-are-set-to-raise-d-volume-and-how-1302732 |access-date=2024-05-06 |website=PINKVILLA |language=en |archive-date=6 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240506131226/https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/south/raayan-release-date-and-first-song-makers-of-dhanush-starrer-are-set-to-raise-d-volume-and-how-1302732 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-05-06 |title=Dhanush confirms June release for Raayan; first single by AR Rahman to release soon |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/tamil-cinema/dhanush-confirms-june-release-for-raayan-first-single-by-ar-rahman-to-release-soon-101714999166261.html |access-date=2024-05-06 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=6 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240506132717/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/tamil-cinema/dhanush-confirms-june-release-for-raayan-first-single-by-ar-rahman-to-release-soon-101714999166261.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The release date was also initially scheduled to release on 11 April, but was postponed to May due to general elections. This was followed by it postponing again to June due to unspecified reasons.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Raayan - Release date of Dhanush directorial to be postponed? Here's what we know |url=https://www.ottplay.com/news/raayan-release-date-of-dhanush-directorial-to-be-postponed-heres-what-we-know/f53f0e085c582 |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=OTTPlay |language=en |archive-date=16 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240516031339/https://www.ottplay.com/news/raayan-release-date-of-dhanush-directorial-to-be-postponed-heres-what-we-know/f53f0e085c582 |url-status=live }}</ref> The film received an [[A certificate|A-certificate]] from the [[Central Board of Film Certification|CBFC]], being the first film of Dhanush receiving so after ''[[Vada Chennai]]'' (2018). === Distribution === Sun Pictures will release the film in [[Tamil Nadu]] themselves through [[Red Giant Movies]].{{cn|date=August 2024}} Asian Suresh Entertainment acquired the distribution rights of the film in [[Andhra Pradesh]] and [[Telangana]] for {{INR}}5 crore.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Prakash |first=B. V. S. |date=2024-05-17 |title=Dhanush's Raayan Telugu Rights Sold For Rs 5 Cr in AP, Telangana? |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/dhanushs-raayan-telugu-rights-sold-for-rs-5-cr-in-ap-telangana-894361 |access-date=2024-05-18 |website=[[Deccan Chronicle]] |language=en |archive-date=18 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240518225248/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/dhanushs-raayan-telugu-rights-sold-for-rs-5-cr-in-ap-telangana-894361 |url-status=live }}</ref> Sree Gokulam Movies bought the distribution rights for [[Kerala]],<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-05-18 |title=Dhanush Movie Rayan: ധനുഷ് ചിത്രം 'രായൻ'; കേരളത്തിൽ ശ്രീ ഗോകുലം മൂവീസ് വിതരണത്തിനെത്തിക്കും |url=https://zeenews.india.com/malayalam/movies/dhanush-film-raayan-shree-gokulam-movies-will-be-distributed-in-kerala-196483 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=Zee News Malayalam |language=ml |archive-date=27 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240727110124/https://zeenews.india.com/malayalam/movies/dhanush-film-raayan-shree-gokulam-movies-will-be-distributed-in-kerala-196483 |url-status=live }}</ref> and AV Media Counsultancy did so for [[Karnataka]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-05-13 |title=Dhanush's 'Raayan' to have a Kannada release |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dhanushs-raayan-to-have-a-kannada-release/articleshow/110075480.cms |access-date=2024-05-15 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=15 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240515162234/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/dhanushs-raayan-to-have-a-kannada-release/articleshow/110075480.cms |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Ayngaran International]] acquired the overseas distribution rights.{{cn|date=August 2024}} Home Screen Entertainment acquired the distribution rights for Singapore and the Middle East, DMY Creations for Malaysia, Prime Media for [[North America]], and MKS Talkies for [[Australia]] and [[New Zealand]].{{cn|date=August 2024}} === Pre-bookings === Pre-bookings started in the [[United Arab Emirates|UAE]] and [[Bahrain]] on 18 July 2024, a week before the film's release.{{cn|date=August 2024}} Over the next few days, pre-bookings also began for the overseas countries, including [[Dubai]] and [[Norway]].{{cn|date=August 2024}} Pre-bookings started in Chennai and Hyderabad on 20 July 2024.{{cn|date=August 2024}} It started also in [[Sri Lanka]] the same day.{{cn|date=August 2024}} === Home media === The satellite rights were acquired by [[Sun TV (India)|Sun TV]], while the film was premiered on [[Amazon Prime Video]] from 23 August 2024 in Tamil, alongside [[Telugu languages|Telugu]], [[Hindi]], [[Kannada]] and [[Malayalam]] languages.<ref>{{cite web |access-date=16 August 2024 |title='Raayan' OTT release date: When and where you can watch Dhanush's 50th film |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/raayan-ott-release-date-when-and-where-you-can-watch-dhanushs-50th-film/articleshow/112561004.cms |work=Times of India}}</ref> == Reception == === Critical response === ''Raayan'' received mixed to positive reviews from the critics. Rohit Panikker of [[Times Now|''Times Now'']] gave 3.5/5 stars and wrote "''Raayan'' is a bloodbath that even the most ardent fan of such blood and gore would find exhausting, especially since it falls in the line of a long spate of recent releases that are similarly-conceived."<ref>{{Cite web|title=|url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/reviews/tamil/raayan-review-old-wine-yet-a-slightly-different-and-interesting-new-bottle-review-112039093|access-date=26 July 2024|archive-date=27 July 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240727041456/https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/reviews/tamil/raayan-review-old-wine-yet-a-slightly-different-and-interesting-new-bottle-review-112039093|url-status=live}}</ref> Divya Nair of ''[[Rediff.com|Rediff]]'' gave 3/5 stars and wrote "''Raayan'' is an interesting one-time watch written for the masses with a little meat here and there for the critics to bite on."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nair |first=Divya |date=29 July 2024 |title=Raayan Review: Dhanush Works His Magic Again |url=https://m.rediff.com/movies/review/raayan-review/20240729.htm |work=[[Rediff.com]] |access-date=30 July 2024 |archive-date=30 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240730182909/https://m.rediff.com/movies/review/raayan-review/20240729.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> M Suganth of [[The Times of India|''The Times of India'']] gave 3/5 stars and wrote "''Raayan'' has a raw and rage-filled setting, and is populated by characters who are rugged, violent, deceptive and also vulnerable."<ref>{{Cite news |title=Raayan Movie Review : A violent emotional drama that is engrossing despite its predictable plot |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movie-reviews/raayan/movie-review/112036906.cms |access-date=2024-07-26 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=26 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240726082142/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movie-reviews/raayan/movie-review/112036906.cms |url-status=live }}</ref> S. Devasankar of ''[[Pinkvilla]]'' gave 3/5 stars and wrote "Dhanush as the director brings a flair of the Tamil gangster action flicks from the late 2000s, but with a modern twist, which works out wonderfully on the silver screen. Everything said Raayan passes off as a good one-time-watch, guaranteeing an emotional yet fun ride that one can catch with their friends." Avinash Ramachandran of [[The Indian Express|''The Indian Express'']] gave 3/5 stars and wrote "Dhanush, the actor and director, stands tall in a film powered by AR Rahman’s brilliant music, and top-notch performances only to fall just short of realising its potential."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-07-26 |title=Raayan movie review: Dhanush crafts an almost compelling film that needed a lot more heft |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/movie-review/raayan-movie-review-dhanush-crafts-an-almost-compelling-film-that-needed-a-lot-more-heft-9476996/ |access-date=2024-07-26 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=27 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240727032805/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/movie-review/raayan-movie-review-dhanush-crafts-an-almost-compelling-film-that-needed-a-lot-more-heft-9476996/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Anusha Sundar of ''[[OTTplay]]'' gave 3/5 stars and wrote "[...] Yes, the writing is bogged down by certain uncertainty and convenience, which does not let many characters to get developed, and in fact get eliminated before they are got to known. But ''Raayan'' is also a valiant effort of Dhanush’s that lets many departments shine through, and plays out a canvas for a experimentation in commercial cinema."<ref>{{Cite web |title=Raayan Movie Review: Dhanush underplays heroism valiantly,even as writing falter |url=https://www.ottplay.com/review/raayan-movie-review-dhanush-underplays-heroism-valiantly-lets-direction-shine-even-as-writing-falters/53b4088a9c274 |access-date=2024-07-26 |website=OTTPlay |language=en |archive-date=27 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240727041430/https://www.ottplay.com/review/raayan-movie-review-dhanush-underplays-heroism-valiantly-lets-direction-shine-even-as-writing-falters/53b4088a9c274 |url-status=live }}</ref> Janani K of [[India Today|''India Today'']] gave 2.5/5 stars and wrote "Dhanush's 50th film is a simple revenge story. The interval block shows streaks of brilliance of his directorial skills. However, as a writer, 'Raayan' lacks emotional depth. For the revenge angle to work, emotions matter."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-07-26 |title='Raayan' Review: Dhanush's 50th film is riveting. Well, almost |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/reviews/story/raayan-review-dhanush-50th-film-riveting-well-almost-2572160-2024-07-26 |access-date=2024-07-26 |website=India Today |language=en |archive-date=27 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240727041441/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/reviews/story/raayan-review-dhanush-50th-film-riveting-well-almost-2572160-2024-07-26 |url-status=live }}</ref> B. V. S. Prakash of [[Deccan Chronicle|''Deccan Chronicle'']] gave 2/5 stars and wrote "Dhanush turned director for this film and relied on gore and violence revolving around a wafer-thin plot. This is truly disappointing since some of his films like [[Asuran (2019 film)|''Asuran'']] and [[Karnan (2021 film)|''Karnan'']] had boasted of bold themes in the past."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Prakash |first=B. V. S. |date=2024-07-26 |title=Raayan Review: Dhanush scores as an actor, fails as director |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/raayan-review-dhanush-scores-as-an-actor-fails-as-director-1812355 |access-date=2024-07-26 |website=www.deccanchronicle.com |language=en |archive-date=27 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240727110632/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/dhanushs-raayan-review-rating-1812355 |url-status=live }}</ref> Latha Srinivasan of [[Hindustan Times|''Hindustan Times'']] wrote "Dhanush’s ''Raayan'' totally packs a punch and is a must-watch for its captivating performances and unexpected story twists. It’s a stellar 50th career film for Dhanush."<ref>{{Cite web|title=Raayan movie review: Dhanush’s gangster drama packs a powerful punch with unexpected twists, captivating climax|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/tamil-cinema/raayan-movie-review-dhanush-gangster-drama-packs-a-powerful-punch-101721978227771.html|date=26 July 2024|website=[[Hindustan Times]]|access-date=26 July 2024|archive-date=27 July 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240727110630/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/tamil-cinema/raayan-movie-review-dhanush-gangster-drama-packs-a-powerful-punch-101721978227771.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Bhuvanesh Chandar of [[The Hindu|''The Hindu'']] wrote "In his sophomore directorial, Dhanush attempts to turn an ordinary story into something more with a well-written setting and measured storytelling, but falls disappointingly short."<ref>{{Cite news |last=Chandar |first=Bhuvanesh |date=2024-07-26 |title=‘Raayan’ movie review: Dhanush’s fiery bloodfest offers only dwindling returns |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/raayan-movie-review-dhanushs-fiery-bloodfest-offers-only-dwindling-returns/article68449302.ece |access-date=2024-07-27 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=27 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240727110631/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/raayan-movie-review-dhanushs-fiery-bloodfest-offers-only-dwindling-returns/article68449302.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> === Box-office === ''Raayan'' grossed {{INRConvert|23.75|c}} worldwide on its opening day, which was the second highest first day gross for a Tamil film, with over {{INRconvert|16|c}} from India and behind [[Indian 2|''Indian 2'']].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-07-27 |title=Raayan box office collections: Biggest opening for Dhanush with 23cr worldwide first day |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/box-office/raayan-box-office-collections-career-biggest-opening-for-dhanush-with-23cr-worldwide-first-day-1332737 |access-date=2024-07-29 |website=PINKVILLA |language=en |archive-date=28 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240728122008/https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/box-office/raayan-box-office-collections-career-biggest-opening-for-dhanush-with-23cr-worldwide-first-day-1332737 |url-status=live }}</ref> The film surpassed ''Karnan'' (2021) to become the biggest opening for one of Dhanush's film.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-07-27 |title=Raayan box office collection day 1: Dhanush delivers biggest opening of his career, action-thriller out-performs Karnan |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/tamil/raayan-box-office-collection-day-1-dhanush-delivers-biggest-opening-of-his-career-action-thriller-out-performs-karnan-9478500/ |access-date=2024-07-27 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=27 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240727110632/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/tamil/raayan-box-office-collection-day-1-dhanush-delivers-biggest-opening-of-his-career-action-thriller-out-performs-karnan-9478500/ |url-status=live }}</ref> It grossed an estimated {{INRConvert|75.42|c}} worldwide on its opening weekend of three days.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-07-29 |title='Raayan' Declared as 2024's Biggest Blockbuster in Kollywood, Earning Rs 75 Crores in 3 Days |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/raayan-declared-as-2024s-biggest-blockbuster-in-kollywood-earning-rs-75-crores-in-3-days/articleshow/112099462.cms |access-date=2024-07-29 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> The film earned {{INRConvert|122.75|c}} in ten days and {{INRConvert|126.75|c}} in next two days days.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Arya |first=Bhawna |date=2024-08-05 |title=Raayan Box Office Collection Day 10: Dhanush Film Surpasses Vijay Sethupathi's Maharaja With Rs 122 Crore Worldwide |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/tamil/raayan-box-office-collection-day-10-dhanush-film-surpasses-vijay-sethupathi-maharaja-with-rs-122-crore-worldwide-article-112286173 |access-date=2024-08-05 |website=[[Times Now]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-08-08 |title=Raayan OTT release date: When and where to watch Dhanush's thriller? |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/raayan-ott-release-date-when-and-where-to-watch-dhanushs-thriller-check-plot-cast/articleshow/112369023.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2024-08-11 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref> By the third weekend film total collection stands at {{INRConvert|109.50|c}} in India and {{INRConvert|149|c}} worldwide.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Singh |first=Jatinder |date=2024-08-12 |title=Raayan box office collections: Dhanush starrer tops 100cr in India, worldwide nears 150cr |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/box-office/raayan-box-office-collections-dhanush-starrer-tops-100cr-in-india-worldwide-nears-150cr-1338194 |access-date=2024-08-12 |website=[[Pinkvilla]] |language=en}}</ref> Raayan grossed an estimated revenue of {{INRConvert|150|c}} in its final run.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Jogani |first=Rishil |date=2024-08-13 |title=7 Dhanush’s Highest Grossing Movies: Raayan tops |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/box-office/dhanushs-highest-grossing-movies-1338572 |access-date=2024-08-14 |website=[[Pinkvilla]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title='Raayan' OTT release date: When and where you can watch Dhanush's 50th film |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/raayan-ott-release-date-when-and-where-you-can-watch-dhanushs-50th-film/amp_articleshow/112561004.cms#amp_tf=From%20%251$s&aoh=17238284816713&csi=0&referrer=https://www.google.com |access-date=2024-08-16 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> == Notes == {{Notelist}} == References == {{reflist}} == External links == * {{IMDb title}} [[Category:2020s Indian films]] [[Category:2020s Tamil-language films]] [[Category:2020s vigilante films]] [[Category:2024 action drama films]] [[Category:2024 crime action films]] [[Category:2024 films]] [[Category:Fictional portrayals of the Tamil Nadu Police]] [[Category:Films about organised crime in India]] [[Category:Films directed by Dhanush]] [[Category:Films scored by A. R. Rahman]] [[Category:Films set in Chennai]] [[Category:Films shot in Chennai]] [[Category:Films shot in Karaikudi]] [[Category:Indian action thriller films]] [[Category:Indian crime action films]] [[Category:Indian films about revenge]] [[Category:Indian vigilante films]] [[Category:Sun Pictures films]] [[Category:Tamil-language Indian films]]'