The latest season of Bigg Boss Tamil has kicked off with a mix of celebrities from across the entertainment industry, and one name that’s catching early attention is Praveen Gandhi — the filmmaker best known for directing the 1997 Tamil romantic action drama Ratchagan. The veteran director’s entry has sparked curiosity among movie buffs who remember his ambitious early work and bold filmmaking choices.
For the uninitiated, Praveen Gandhi (also known as Praveenkanth) began his career in the late 1990s, quickly gaining prominence with Ratchagan, a big-budget production starring Nagarjuna and Sushmita Sen. The film, produced by K. T. Kunjumon, was shot extensively across India — from Ooty and Manali to Rajasthan and Mumbai — and was one of the most expensive Tamil films of its time. Though Ratchagan received mixed reviews, its technical quality, lavish production, and A. R. Rahman’s music earned it a special place in Tamil cinema history.
After Ratchagan, Praveen continued his filmmaking journey under the name Praveenkanth. His 1999 romantic film Jodi, starring Prashanth and Simran, turned into a box office success and is still fondly remembered for its songs and youthful energy. He followed it up with Star (2001), in which he also played a lead role, though the film failed to match expectations. Later projects like Thullal (2007) and Puli Paarvai (2014) showcased his willingness to experiment, even if critical reception was mixed.
Now, with Bigg Boss Tamil Season 9, Praveen Gandhi steps into a completely different spotlight. This marks his first appearance on reality television, offering fans a glimpse of the man behind the camera — his temperament, convictions, and creative instincts in a highly social environment.
Industry watchers believe his inclusion could bring a refreshing dose of intellect and narrative flair to the show. Known for his outspoken nature and cinematic sensibilities, Praveen is expected to add depth and perspective to the interactions inside the Bigg Boss house — a welcome contrast to the typical celebrity drama the show is famous for.
Hosted by Vijay Sethupathi, Bigg Boss Tamil 9 airs daily on Star Vijay and streams 24×7 on JioCinema. With Praveen Gandhi joining the mix, fans are eager to see whether the director will play the role of a strategist, a mentor, or a disruptor in one of Tamil television’s most-watched reality stages.
