Radhika Sarathkumar’s Stunning Makeover: 100 Elderly Women Inspired Her ‘Thaai Kizhavi’ Look – BTS Video Goes Viral!

Veteran actress Radhika Sarathkumar has stunned fans with her bold and unrecognizable makeover in the upcoming Tamil film Thaai Kizhavi (also spelled Thay Kizhavi or Thai Kizhavi). Directed by debutant Sivakumar Murugesan, Radhika plays the central role of Pavunuthayi (Pavunu Thaayi), a fierce, no-nonsense elderly village moneylender who commands fear and respect in her rural community.

The film’s team recently released a special behind-the-scenes featurette video showcasing the incredible effort that went into her transformation. At 63 years old, Radhika transformed into an 80-year-old woman using extensive prosthetic makeup to achieve a hyper-realistic look — complete with wrinkles, sagging skin, darkened complexion, broken teeth, age spots, scars, and more.

Key highlights from the video and reports:

• Renowned Malayalam prosthetic makeup artist Vineesh Vijayan was specially brought in for the job (his debut in this field for the film).
• The team collected reference samples from over 100 elderly women (primarily from areas like Usilampatti) — studying forehead wrinkles, hair color and texture, moles, scars, tooth discoloration, skin tone, and overall facial structure to create an authentic, lived-in appearance.
• Radhika endured long hours of patience during the application process, highlighting her dedication.
• In the video, Radhika shares that she sent the first images of her look to longtime friend and colleague Kamal Haasan, who was completely awestruck (“awestruck”) and praised it as looking like an “OG thug” (original tough character) — a huge compliment from the legend himself!

About the Film:

• Produced by Sivakarthikeyan Productions (Sivakarthikeyan’s banner, marking his 9th production after hits like Kanaa and Housefull) in association with Passion Studios.
• The story blends comedy, drama, emotion, and rural suspense, centered on this tough elderly matriarch.
• The teaser (released earlier) has already grabbed attention with Radhika’s intense avatar.
• Music by Nivas K Prasanna, cinematography by Vivek Vijayakumar, editing by San Lokesh.
• Release Date: February 20, 2026, in theaters.

Radhika’s fearless choice to shed glamour for a gritty, age-defying role is being hailed as a milestone for senior actresses in Indian cinema. Fans are calling it a “legendary transformation” and can’t wait to see her powerful performance!

Stay tuned — ‘Thaai Kizhavi’ promises to be a raw, rooted entertainer!