The opening ceremony of the Sivaji Ganesan bronze statue in Madurai was a day of reminiscence for Kamal Haasan and a host of other actors. Earlier, the statue was inaugurated by the Union Minister MK Alagiri. Speaking at the function, Kamal said that Sivaji had always been his inspiration and there was a touch of Sivaji's acting in his. The Ulaganayagan added that the late actor wielded respect so much that he used to remain speechless in his presence. Vijayakumar said that all actors, including the two present icons of the Tamil film industry, Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, has the Sivaji effect in their acting. Comedian Vadivelu recalled his Devar Magan days when he had the opportunity to act with the legendary actor.
