Thalaivar Rajinikanth's latest film Annaatthe completed 50 days yesterday in theatres successfully and the Enthiran actor took to Hoote and recalled troubled times on set when a few crew members tested positive for Covid-19.Rajinikanth said, Annaatthe's shooting commenced in December 2019. We took a break after completing 35 days of shooting. We had planned to resume the shoot again in March 2020. However, we couldn't do it because of the outbreak of the coronavirus. For nine months, there was no work. In December, we began shooting in Hyderabad. We followed strict protocols on set including Covid tests. We wore masks all the time. Even for rehearsals, we wore a mask and removed it only when the camera was rolling.

During the Hyderabad schedule, Keerthy Suresh's assistant had tested positive for the virus but hadn't informed anyone. He recalled, Keerthy's assistant had caught the virus five days ago. We don't know what happened and how we missed it, but he never told anyone. Everyone was in shock. I worked closely with Keerthy Suresh during those days. And her assistant was also there with us. Director Siruthai Siva and Kalanithi Maran were upset and cancelled the shoot.

Though Rajinikanth tested negative for the virus, his doctors in Hyderabad insisted that he stay at the hospital for two days for observation. The doctors also checked his lungs as a precautionary measure. Talking about the initial reviews of Annaatthe he said, Initial reviews for the film were not satisfactory. Three days after the film's release, it started raining heavily. If it had rained on the day of release, how could people visit theatres? The film would have definitely failed. Thankfully, Annaatthe did well. It would have done much better, if not for the rains. I am reminded of a dialogue from Baasha - God will test good people, but will never let them down (sic).

Annnaatthe is a family entertainer directed by Siruthai Siva. The film starred Rajinikanth, Keerthy Suresh, Nayanthara, Prakash Raj, Jagapathi Babu and Soori in important roles.