Director-actor Abishan Jeevinth on Sunday penned a heartfelt birthday message to Kannada superstar Shiva Rajkumar, saying he was 'incredibly proud' to be sharing screen space with the veteran actor in director Gautham Sivaraman's upcoming untitled film. The post, shared on Abishan's X timeline, underscored the warmth the Tamil filmmaker has found working alongside one of Kannada cinema's most enduring stars.

What Abishan Jeevinth Said

Taking to his X account, Abishan — who rose to prominence with his debut directorial 'Tourist Family' — addressed Shiva Rajkumar directly: 'Happy Birthday, @NimmaShivanna sir!! Wishing you nothing but the very best, always. Thank you for all the love and support you've shown me. I'm incredibly proud to be sharing the screen with you.'

The message was notable not just for its warmth but for what it signals: a Tamil director-turned-actor stepping into a big-canvas Kannada production and finding his footing alongside a star with over four decades in the industry.

About the Upcoming Film

Director Gautham Sivaraman's film pairs Abishan Jeevinth and Shiva Rajkumar in the lead roles and is being bankrolled by Balamurugan A under the banner Drama Company. The project was launched in June 2025 with considerable fanfare. Shivani Nagaram is set to play the female lead opposite Abishan, while the supporting cast includes Yogalakshmi, Gaana Vinoth, Sangeetha Madhavan, and Benjamin.

Industry Wishes Pour In for Shiva Rajkumar

Abishan was far from alone in marking the occasion. Several film industry professionals extended birthday greetings to the Kannada star on Sunday.

Dance choreographer Jani Master, posting on his X timeline, called Shiva Rajkumar 'one of the most humble souls I've ever had the privilege to work with,' adding: 'Working with you on two films has truly been a blessing, Shivanna garu. Every moment spent with you is a lesson in humility, grace, and dedication. Meeting you and taking your blessings is something I'll always cherish. Wishing @NimmaShivanna garu a very Happy Birthday! May you be blessed with great health, happiness and many more blockbuster successes. Love and respect always.'

Ace cinematographer Rajasekar — who is serving as director of photography on Shiva Rajkumar's film 'Dad' — also posted a tribute on X, writing: 'Happy Birthday to the Hero of Millions, Karunada Chakravarthi Dr. Shivaraj Kumar sir @nimmashivarajkumar. For over 40 years, you've inspired generations with your humility, dedication, and unforgettable performances. It's an absolute honour and blessing for me to be working as the cinematographer on your film Dad. Wishing you good health, endless happiness, and many more years of inspiring cinema. With love and respect...'

The Significance of the Collaboration

Shiva Rajkumar's continued ability to attract cross-industry talent — a Tamil director making his acting debut in a Kannada production, a nationally recognised choreographer, and a sought-after cinematographer all converging on his projects simultaneously — reflects his standing as a pan-South draw. This comes at a time when Kannada cinema is riding high on post-KGF and Kantara momentum, drawing greater attention from producers and audiences across language barriers.