a one-year ban on him from directing films after completion of this film. But the issue was later resolved amicably.

Mirugam deals with the issue of AIDS and the society’s perspective and behavior towards those afflicted with it. It is supposed to have dealt with the issue in a compassionate manner and its heroine Padma Priya is said to have come out with a stunning performance as a village belle. The film should have hit the screens tomorrow (December 14) but is mired in controversy again as the censor officials refused to clear the film until it’s director produced a no objection certificate from the Animal Welfare Board as it is mandatory for films that involved animals. The director, unaware of this, had given a green signal to the theatres to open booking. The theatre owners were naturally aggrieved and angry over this goof up by the director.

However, this issue was resolved with the AWB giving a clean chit. Following this, the movie was sent to the censor board officials on time, late last night, which certified the film ‘A’. The movie hits the screens on the same day Ajith’s Billa also makes it and all those who can’t get tickets for Billa can give Mirugam a shot.