Suriya starrer Karuppu, directed by RJ Balaji, faced a major setback on its scheduled release day today, May 14, 2026. Multiple theatres in Tamil Nadu cancelled the 9 AM special shows and subsequent noon screenings at the last minute due to unresolved financial disputes involving the production house Dream Warrior Pictures and distributors.
Producer SR Prabhu issued a statement confirming the cancellation of morning shows “due to unavoidable reasons” and apologised to fans for the inconvenience. Director RJ Balaji released an emotional video, visibly upset, apologising to audiences while expressing hope that the film could still hit screens in the evening if issues were sorted quickly.
What caused the delay?
Reports point to pending dues and financial settlements between the producers, distributors (Sakthi Film Factory), and theatre owners. Advance bookings were strong, but the sudden development led to show cancellations and ticket refunds in many centres. Tamil Nadu CM Vijay had earlier granted special permission for early 9 AM shows.
Suriya steps in
Sources indicate that actor Suriya personally intervened to help resolve the financial hurdles and clear outstanding payments so the film could release without further delay.
As of the latest updates from today, evening and night shows remain uncertain in several theatres, with some chains indicating a possible shift to tomorrow, May 15. The team is working to bring the film to screens at the earliest.
Karuppu is an action drama with fantasy elements where Suriya plays a lawyer possessed by the deity Karuppuswamy. Trisha Krishnan reunites with Suriya after nearly two decades. The film also features music by Sai Abhyankkar.
Fans are awaiting an official confirmation on the revised release schedule.