Jenson Dhivakar’s Look as Vellaiyan in Madhavan’s GDN Out

Chennai: The makers of the upcoming period biopic GDN, starring Madhavan in the lead, have released the look of actor Jenson Dhivakar in the film.

Production house Varghese Moolans Pictures shared the image on Instagram and introduced the character, writing: “Introducing @dhivakargj as Vellaiyan. Some stories are written in gratitude. G.D.N in theatres from 7th August.”

Directed by Krishnakumar Ramakumar, GDN is a biopic of G.D. Naidu, the noted Indian inventor, agriculturist and philanthropist. The film is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on August 7.

The makers had earlier revealed other key roles. Karunakaran plays Perunkili, while Aditi Balan portrays Padmavathi. Looks have also been released for Sheela as the young Chellamal and Teejay Arunasalam as the young G.D. Naidu.

A trailer released earlier this month has generated considerable interest. It opens with a suggestion that the ageing G.D. Naidu had “gone mad” after bombing his own building, followed by an Englishman’s dismissive question about the man. The narrative then introduces Naidu’s success with his transport system UMS and his establishment of a polytechnic engineering college, which draws jealousy from rivals.

Jayaram appears as a formidable antagonist named Krishnan, questioning Naidu’s high fees while alleging tax avoidance. The British authorities, however, find his accounts in order. Rivals, including a character played by Vinay Rai, push to “soil the books” and level false charges, including claims that Naidu was manufacturing machines for counterfeit currency.

The trailer portrays Naidu as a consistent taxpayer who began questioning the authorities only when subjected to what he viewed as unjust levies. Treason charges are later framed against him, with allegations of business links to the Nazis. Krishnan’s character warns that Naidu will be denied peace. The trailer closes with Aditi Balan’s character reflecting on courage: “If the story of a hunt is written by the lion without the hunter in it, then the meaning of courage itself will change.”

In addition to Madhavan, the cast includes Jayaram, Carl Andrew Harte, Priyamani, Dushara Vijayan, Karunakaran, Sathyaraj, Aditi Balan, Vinay Rai and Teejay Arunasalam in significant roles. Music is composed by Govind Vasantha, with cinematography by Aravind Kamalanathan.

The latest character reveal adds to the pre-release momentum as the film approaches its August 7 theatrical debut. Audiences will soon see how the biopic frames the life and conflicts of G.D. Naidu through its ensemble cast and period setting.