'Vaazhai' OTT release date: When and where to watch Mari Selvaraj's directorial

Mari Selvaraj is celebrated for his impactful films such as 'Pariyerum Perumal', 'Karnan', and 'Maamannan'. His latest offering, 'Vaazhai', is set to hit the screens on August 23. The film generated considerable buzz due to Selvaraj's reputation for delivering thought-provoking social commentary and strong narratives. The rural drama has been well-received by fans and lauded for its authentic portrayal.However, due to a crowded release schedule, 'Vaazhai' did not maintain a long run in several theaters. Now, the film is preparing for its digital debut and will be available for streaming on Hotstar starting September 27. Initially, 'Vaazhai' will be streamed in Tamil, with plans to release it in other languages at a later date.
'Vaazhai' delves into the social struggles faced by villagers whose livelihoods are intricately tied to a business centered around a Banyan tree. The storyline is inspired by Selvaraj's own childhood experiences, adding a layer of personal connection to the narrative. The film stars Raghul and Ponvel in pivotal roles, supported by a talented cast including Nikhila Vimal, Kalaiyarasan, J Sathish Kumar, Dhivya Duraisamy, and Janaki. The musical score for the film is provided by the acclaimed composer Santhosh Narayanan. In terms of box office performance, 'Vaazhai' has been successful, earning over Rs 15 crore.
'Vaazhai' has garnered praise from several prominent figures in Tamil cinema, including Rajinikanth, Shankar, Mani Ratnam, Vijay Sethupathi, Silambarasan, and Sivakarthikeyan. Their endorsements have contributed to the film's growing reputation. Even as it continues its run in theaters, Vaazhai is performing robustly at the Tamil Nadu box office, underscoring its impact and relevance.
Etimes rated the movie 3 out of 5 and the review read, "Powerful performances shine in an otherwise black-and-white tale." Further the review read, "True to Mari Selvaraj’s style, the film dives into caste dynamics. It sets up a whole ecosystem: villagers breaking their backs in the plantation, a broker playing middleman, and when Kani tries to organise a strike, the big boss shows up to smooth-talk their demands away."