Chinmayi Sripaada writes apology to Dhee on the viral Mutha Mazhai performance

The singer further added that she loves Dhee’s ‘vella’ voice and she knew that her addition to the Thug Life song meant the makers had taken the quirky, creative road with the song.

Singer Chinmayi Sripaada recently mustered up the courage to belt out Mutha Mazhai at the audio launch of Kamal Haasan’s latest film 'Thug Life'. The well-sung song also went on to become viral in no time, and Chinmayi took some time to write about the attention it received, in particular considering Dhee—the one who crooned the track for the film.

In an exclusive interview with The Hindu, Chinmayi talks about the unanticipated spotlight and comparisons that followed. “Dhee was not, in fact, available, unfortunately, that day,” she said. “I had sung the Telugu and Hindi versions already, so I was just doing my job. I was just filling in for when the original singer wasn’t there.”

The singer further added that she loves Dhee’s ‘vella’ voice and she knew that her addition to the Thug Life song meant the makers had taken the quirky, creative road with the song. “They were definitely looking for something different and special when they opted for Dhee — she has a unique expression that is hers alone,” Chinmayi pointed out.

Looking back on the response, Chinmayi conceded that the conversation online has been like “a wrestling match she didn’t sign up for and even Dhee didn’t.” “If anything we both have respect and admiration as artists that inspire and influence one another,” she added.

In an emotional outburst, Chinmayi even apologised to Dhee on the public platform saying that this is the need of the hour to support young blooming talents. “She’s just a child with so much in her,” Chinmayi said. In 15 years, she might eclipse 100 Chinmayis or Shreya Ghoshals. She’ll have her own special place. It doesn’t make sense to compare our versions. If I had to sing this way when I was 18 or 20, I might not be able to.”

Chinmayi’s words speak volumes about the humility and solidarity in the dog-eat-dog world of playback singing. Fans praised her honesty and maturity in the comments.

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Thug Life is an upcoming action drama movie which is going to be directed by Mani Ratnam starring Kamal Haasan and Silambarasan TR. Scheduled for release on June 5, 2025, the movie has already garnered attention for its star-studded cast, as well as its powerful visuals—and now, its heart-wrenching soundtrack.

While the release of the film looms closer, Chinmayi’s viral and generous gesture subtly reminds us all how chummy and respectful things still are behind the scenes, in the Indian music industry.