Kadugu

In May 2014, Vijay Milton announced his interest in directing actor T. Rajender for a film about a person who goes from "zero" to "hero".^[4] Milton later became busy with the production of 10 Endrathukulla (2015) and was later unsuccessful in convincing Rajender to be a part of the project. He subsequently signed on Rajakumaran to portray the lead role of a puli vesham artist. Bharath signed the project in early 2016 and bulked up for the film in order to portray a boxer, training under the physical trainer Sivakumar. To work on the film, Bharath reduced his remuneration and worked flexibly to accommodate the project. He also denied reports that he was playing the antagonist in the film, stating he would play one of the three leading roles.^[5][6] Vijay Milton's brother Bharath Seeni was selected to portray the third leading role, while actresses Subiksha and Radhika Prasidhha were also signed on to feature in the film.^[7] Srushti Dange had earlier held discussions for a role in the film, before Subiksha was finalised.^[8] Actress Samantha had also distanced herself from the film after being reported to have been signed on for a role opposite Rajakumaran.^[9] The film began production during March 2016 in Chennai, soon after the cast was finalised.^[10] The climax of the film was shot around the outskirts of Chennai during May 2016.^[11][12]

After watching and being impressed by a pre-release screening of the film, actor Suriya chose to purchase the distribution rights and give it a wide release across Tamil Nadu through his 2D Entertainment banner.^[13]

The soundtrack of the film was launched on, with the producers holding a special event named "Believe in Yourself" to mark the launch. Invitees to the event were called to passionately speak about their respective professions.^[14][15] The film's songs were composed by S. N. Arunagiri, while the background music was scored by Anoop Seelin. The soundtrack also marked the first complete album for Suriya's music label, 2D Music, after they had earlier released a single for Magalir Mattum (2017).^[16]