04 December,2025 03:11 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Rajinikanth and Suriya
Veteran producer AVM Saravanan passed away early on Thursday at the age of 86. The force behind the iconic AVM Studios, his demise truly marked the end of an era for the Tamil film industry. Many celebrities arrived at AVM Studios on Thursday morning to pay their last respects, including Tamil superstars Rajinikanth and Suriya. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin also paid his respects to the late producer.
Visuals of Suriya arriving at the studio with his father, Sivakumar, have surfaced on social media. Both looked devastated as they arrived to pay their respects. Suriya was seen standing with his hands folded in front of the producer's mortal remains. The actor broke down in tears as he could no longer hold back his emotions upon seeing Saravanan for the last time.
Speaking to the media after paying his last respects to the veteran producer, whose demise marks the end of an era for the Indian film industry, Rajinikanth said, "He was a truly great person. He was the perfect example of a gentleman. He would always wear white, and his heart was just as pure. He loved cinema with all his heart. Even if he spoke for just a few minutes, he would mention his father, whom he fondly called âAppachi,' several times."
The actor went on to share details of the special relationship he shared with the iconic producer, known for his kindness and humility.
Rajinikanth added, "He loved me a lot and was a true well-wisher. He stood by me during difficult times. I have acted in nine films for AVM, and all nine became big hits. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that the main reason they succeeded was Saravanan sir."
He continued, "In the eighties, there was Murattu Kalai, made on a grand scale in Tamil. In the 2000s, there was Sivaji, also made on a grand scale. Similarly, he was in talks with me to make another film in the 2020s, but that didn't happen."
Expressing his grief, Rajinikanth said, "I offer my deepest condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace."
AVM Saravanan, who had celebrated his birthday just a day earlier, leaves behind an unparalleled legacy as the driving force behind numerous iconic films produced under the prestigious AVM banner. His contributions shaped generations of cinema and earned him immense admiration across the industry. News of his passing plunged the Tamil film industry into gloom, with several production houses cancelling scheduled events as a mark of respect to a man regarded as a visionary, mentor, and pioneer of Tamil cinema.
