Why This Humble Tea Stall In Chennai Is The Go-to Spot For Film Actors, Directors – News18

Last Updated:November 29, 2024, 18:31 IST

Kaveri Corner in Saligramam is a cherished gathering spot for the Tamil film fraternity.

In Chennai, Prasad Studios hosts the majority of Tamil film shootings; its nearby tea stall named Kaveri Corner has naturally become the go-to relaxation spot for artists and aspiring filmmakers. It’s a place where dreams and reality collide. Walking past this spot, you can witness a unique side of cinema, filled with hope and determination. Despite facing financial struggles, people here brim with optimism, saying things like: “The director has called me for a casting tomorrow, ” “Just a few more shooting days”, “The final draft is done; I’ll meet the producer tomorrow.” These conversations reflect unwavering ambition, unaffected by current hardships, a true depiction of real-life cinema.

Kaveri Corner, often referred to as Kaveri Karai, is the meeting point for everyone in the film industry, those who have made it big and those still chasing their dreams. It’s a vital hub for networking, where introductions and connections happen over casual chats.

Radan Raja, the 31-year-old aspiring filmmaker, personifies this pursuit. His journey from Mumbai to Chennai at the tender age of 16 speaks of determination. Kaveri Corner holds a special place in his story, as the tea stall was the backdrop for striking his first movie deal through a friend’s introduction to actor-director Samuthirakani. Raja said, “Kaveri is more than just a tea stall for us.” This underlines how this unassuming place transcends its modest existence, becoming a hub of opportunities.

Established 13 years ago, Kaveri Corner, located opposite Prasad Studios in Saligramam, is a cherished gathering spot for the Tamil film fraternity. Its name derives from the adjacent Kaveri Street, home to many industry professionals. The shop starts brewing tea at 4 am, and by mid-morning, it buzzes with filmmakers, technicians, and assistant directors enjoying a quick tea break.

Haidarali, who runs the tea shop, proudly shares how he and his team facilitate these aspiring talents. “We connect them to the directors and help them in our way,” he says, reflecting the community spirit that keeps the industry’s wheels turning.