The trailer for Dhanush's fourth directorial venture, Idli Kadai, has been released, offering a glimpse into a heartwarming story of family, food, and fighting for what matters. The film, written, directed, and co-produced by Dhanush, features him in the lead role alongside Nithya Menen, Arun Vijay, Shalini Pandey, Sathyaraj, R. Parthiban, P. Samuthirakani, and Rajkiran. Idli Kadai is slated for a theatrical release on October 1, 2025.
The trailer introduces Murugan, played by Dhanush, as the son of humble parents (Rajkiran and Geetha Kailasam) who run a popular idli shop in their village. More than just a business, the shop represents the community's identity. Murugan, blessed with exceptional culinary talent, achieves international success as a chef. However, he is drawn back to his roots and decides to revive his father's eatery, continuing the family legacy.
The film seems to explore the tension between ambition, loyalty, and legacy. The trailer hints at emotional and dramatic conflicts, particularly involving Murugan's former mentor and his family, played by Sathyaraj and Arun Vijay. Murugan's journey takes a turn when he realizes the importance of returning to his roots and embracing what truly matters. He finds himself fighting off attempts by his former corporate employer to take over his father's business.
The trailer begins with Murugan asking his father for an idli grinder to reduce the manual labor involved in making the batter. His father, attached to the traditional methods, is skeptical about the change. Murugan ventures into hotel management, working for Ashwin (Arun Vijay) and increasing profits. However, Ashwin later threatens Murugan, putting his father's business and legacy at risk. This conflict forces Murugan to confront challenges and fight for his pride.
GV Prakash Kumar has composed the music for Idli Kadai. The audio rights were acquired by Saregama. The first single, "Enna Sugam," was released on July 27, 2025, coinciding with Dhanush's birthday. The second single, "Enjaami Thandhaane," was released on August 27, 2025, for Ganesh Chaturthi. The audio launch occurred on September 14, and the third single, "En Paattan Saami Varum," was released on September 17.
Dhanush has expressed a personal connection to the film, stating that the title was inspired by his childhood love for idlis. He shared that as a child, he craved idlis but couldn't always afford them.
Idli Kadai marks Dhanush's fourth directorial venture, following Pa Paandi, Raayan, and Nilavuku En Mel Ennadi Kobam. Besides Idli Kadai, Dhanush has several other projects in the pipeline, including Tere Ishk Mein, directed by Aanand L Rai and co-starring Kriti Sanon, a film with director Vignesh Raja, and a biopic on Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam titled Kalam: The Missile Man of India. He also stars in Sekhar Kammula's Kubera, alongside Rashmika Mandanna.
Idli Kadai promises to be a heartwarming entertainer with a message about staying grounded and remembering one's roots. With its blend of family drama, culinary passion, and Dhanush's storytelling, the film is expected to resonate with audiences.