Vijay assures smooth release of Kaththi

Actor Vijay has assured that his Tamil film "Kaththi", whose release seemed doubtful after Tamil groups protested against the film due to its producers' alleged "unproven link" with Sri Lankan government, will hit the screens Wednesday.

On Monday, Tamil fringe groups had demanded the removal of Lyca Productions' name from all the publicity material of the film for its smooth release in the state.

"Over the last few days, few Tamil outfits have been demanding that references to Lyca Productions be removed from the film's banner and title. Since the producers have agreed to remove the name from the title and banner, the conflict has been resolved and decks have been cleared for its release," Vijay said in a statement.

"I hope the fans and public enjoy the film. I thank (former chief minister) J. Jayalalithaa for all the support. I also thank the police and exhibitors," he said.

"Kaththi" features Samantha Ruth Prabhu as the female lead. Bollywood actor Neil Nitin Mukesh is making his Tamil debut in the film as an antagonist.