In an exclusive interview to Indiaglitz 'Theri' director Atlee shares some interesting details about his long lasting relationship with actor Ilayathalapathy Vijay and how he got the star on board for 'Theri'.

"As an Assitant director during 'Nanban' days I did not have any fear to approach Vijay Anna. He would give that comfort zone to you as a star. He will put his hands around my shoulder and ask 'what is the shot today'. Since then there has been a travel between me and him. I have never hesitated to text him event at late night times and he would promptly reply. He also used to chat with me and would share his views about the films he had watched. But once I decided to approach him for a film to work together, I decided not to use my friendship with him. I opted for the professional way. I contacted his manager and conveyed my wish of narrating a script to him and it is through that formal channel I reached him. Before I started the narration Anna even asked why I did not approach him directly.

Once the shooting started initially I was a little confused. But he again gave me that comfort zone. I have never addressed him with the word Sir. I have always called him Anna. He would be so friendly, down to earth and humble. It is hard to see a human being like him. While the film was nearing completion I started thinking that I would miss moving around with him. "