Madras HC defers verdict on actor Prabhu's plea against seizure of Sivaji Ganesan’s 'Annai Illam': Report

The iconic residence of late actor Sivaji Ganesan, Annai Illam, has become the centre of a legal dispute after the Madras High Court ordered its attachment in a case involving unpaid debts. The order was issued as part of proceedings related to a loan of Rs 9.39 crore (including interest), allegedly taken by Sivaji’s grandson Dushyanth for the production of the film 'Jagajala Killadi'. In response, actor Prabhu, Sivaji’s son, filed a petition seeking the cancellation of the court’s attachment order, claiming sole ownership of the property.
Actor Prabhu asserts ownership rights
According to News 18, in his petition, actor Prabhu asserted that Annai Illam legally belongs to him, as it was bequeathed to him by Sivaji Ganesan through a registered will. Supporting this claim, Ramkumar, father of Dushyanth and another son of Sivaji, filed an affidavit stating he had no ownership or rights over the property. Prabhu's legal counsel emphasized that the attachment was unjustified since Ramkumar has no claim to the property, and Prabhu is the rightful owner based on the legal documentation.
Opposing side questions ownership claim
The counsel representing Thanabakkiyam Enterprises, which initiated the debt recovery, challenged Prabhu’s claim. They argued that it is implausible Ramkumar would relinquish rights to a property valued in crores and spread over 22 grounds. The opposing party urged the court not to revoke the attachment order without a full investigation into the true ownership, suggesting that the matter required further legal scrutiny to reach a fair conclusion.
Court postpones verdict without date
After hearing arguments from both sides, Justice Abdul Quddhose reserved the verdict and decided to defer the final ruling without mentioning a specific date. The case remains pending, with Annai Illam’s fate hanging in balance until the court completes a deeper evaluation of ownership and legal responsibilities.