Actor Dhanush took to X on Friday, June 19, 2026, to celebrate his father’s performance in the newly released Tamil drama ‘Habeebi’. In a heartfelt post, he highlighted the film’s emotional depth and singled out Kasthuri Raja’s embodiment of the character Yusuf. The actor’s note arrived just days after the film opened in theatres last week, adding a personal touch to the growing buzz.
Dhanush’s tribute highlights ‘Habeebi’
In his X message, Dhanush described the movie as an “exceptional cinematic experience” and praised his father’s commitment to the role. He wrote:
I feel proud thinking of my father, who must have fully immersed himself and lived as the character Yusuf in an entirely new world he had never known before,
— Dhanush, Actor
Kasthuri Raja, a veteran filmmaker turned actor, brings Yusuf to life with a conviction that Dhanush says “makes the performance unforgettable”. The post also featured a Tamil‑language caption that reflected the actor’s emotional connection to his father’s work. Beyond his father, the film features performances by Esha, Malavika Manoj and Dhanasree Sudhakaran, each contributing to the layered portrayal of a Tamil‑speaking Muslim community in southern Tamil Nadu.
Director Meera Kathiravan, known for crafting rooted narratives, reportedly spent considerable time researching the region and its people, lending the film a sense of authenticity that Dhanush praised. Veteran cinematographer PC Sreeram recently called ‘Habeebi’ a “wonderful attempt”, underscoring the visual strength of the project. The story weaves three distinct timelines—from the 1980s to the present day—exploring love, migration, identity and the impact of overseas work on handloom‑weaving families.
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Dhanush also extended his congratulations to director Meera Kathiravan and the entire cast and crew, commending them for what he described as outstanding work. His endorsement arrives at a time when positive word‑of‑mouth is steadily building around the film, with audiences responding to its emotional resonance and the authentic depiction of a community navigating change across generations.
Frequently asked questions
Who directed the movie Habeebi?
Director Meera Kathiravan directed the Tamil drama 'Habeebi', known for crafting rooted narratives and extensive research on the community depicted.
What is the story of Habeebi?
The film weaves three timelines—from the 1980s to the present—to explore love, migration, identity, and the impact of overseas work on handloom‑weaving Tamil Muslim families.
What role does Kasthuri Raja play in Habeebi?
Kasthuri Raja portrays Yusuf, a role Dhanush praised for its emotional depth and conviction, calling it unforgettable in the film's portrayal of the community.
Who are the main actors in Habeebi?
The film features Kasthuri Raja, Esha, Malavika Manoj, and Dhanasree Sudhakaran, alongside Dhanush’s father in a pivotal role.
Why did Dhanush praise his father's performance?
Dhanush highlighted his father's immersive portrayal of Yusuf, noting his dedication to embodying a character from an unfamiliar world, creating an “exceptional cinematic experience.”
