Chennai, India – July 11, 2025: Tamil cinema icon Rajinikanth attended a grand event in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, to celebrate the remarkable success of the novel Velpari, written by Su Venkatesan, a Member of Parliament from the Communist Party of India (Marxist). The book, published by Vikatan Publications, has sold over 100,000 copies, marking a significant milestone in Tamil literature.
Speaking as the chief guest at the event held at Kalaivanar Arangam, Rajinikanth praised the novel and its impact. “Art knows no caste, no religion. The world of art stands beyond such boundaries,” he said, highlighting the universal appeal of creative work. He commended the people of Tamil Nadu for their unwavering support for artists and writers, stating, “The people of Tamil Nadu have always stood by and supported the artistic community wholeheartedly.”
Velpari, a historical novel written by Su Venkatesan, has captured the hearts of readers with its vivid storytelling and illustrations by artist Maniyam Selvan. The event celebrated the book’s achievement of crossing 100,000 copies in sales, a rare feat in Indian literature. Rajinikanth unveiled a special ‘Velpari 100000’ emblem to mark the occasion, joined by the author and other dignitaries.
The celebration, organized by Vikatan Publications, drew a large crowd of literature enthusiasts, fans, and notable figures from Tamil Nadu’s cultural and political spheres. Su Venkatesan, who is both a writer and a politician, expressed gratitude to his readers and the publishing team for the novel’s success.
Rajinikanth’s presence added star power to the event, with his speech resonating widely. His words underscored the power of art to unite people across social and cultural divides, reflecting Tamil Nadu’s rich tradition of embracing literature and creativity.
The success of Velpari highlights the growing popularity of Tamil literature and its ability to connect with readers across generations. The event concluded with a renewed call to celebrate and support artistic endeavors that transcend boundaries.
