Lathha wrote 'Maragathamalai' for her kids' request

Director S. Lathha, one of the emerging women filmmakers in Tamil cinema, is currently working on a fantasy drama for children titled Maragathamalai. She revealed that the idea for the film came from her own kids, who once asked her to write a story she truly loved. Inspired by the fairy tales she grew up hearing from her grandmother and mother, Lathha combined those childhood memories with her imagination to create this magical tale.

I’ve always loved fairy tales. I used to create my own stories and share them with my kids. One day, they asked me, ‘Why not write a story you love?’ That’s when I began working on Maragathamalai, and finished it with the help of a talented team, she shared.

To bring the fantasy world to life, the film features a strong child cast and VFX-generated animals. The movie stars Master Shashanth, Arima, Mahithra, Kalaiko, and more. Santhosh Prathap and Deepshikha play the lead roles, with Thambi Ramayya, Jagan, and Sampath Ram in key supporting roles. Temper Vamsi appears as the main villain.

Set in the 18th century, the film was shot over 40 days in the scenic Thada forest, where a detailed set was built. The team is now focused on completing the VFX work. Lathha has written the story, screenplay, dialogues, and lyrics. The film is expected to release in May, timed for summer holidays. Music is by L.V. Muthu Ganesh, with cinematography by P.G. Muthiah.