Junior M.G.R. (real name V. Ramachandran), grandson of legendary Tamil icon M.G. Ramachandran, has lauded Malayalam actor Soubin Shahir for his vibrant performance in the much-anticipated Lokesh Kanagaraj film Coolie—particularly highlighting the infectious energy he brought to the viral “Monica” song segment.
In comments that instantly captured attention across Tamil social media, Junior M.G.R. singled out Soubin’s presence, noting that although many fans sought to spot Rajinikanth, he was drawn instead by Soubin Shahir’s screen charisma and timing. “When I watched that sequence, I found myself smiling—not at the superstar, but at Soubin’s lively expressions and dance moves,” Junior M.G.R. shared, his admiration obvious.
The “Monica” song—picturized on Pooja Hegde—with its upbeat composition and choreographed hook step, has already amassed millions of views since its July release. Junior M.G.R. further emphasized how Soubin’s performance elevated the entire sequence, complementing the lead cast and enhancing the overall energy, even in a supporting role.
This praise comes amidst a stirring wave of excitement surrounding Coolie, which casts Rajinikanth alongside Nagarjuna, Upendra, Soubin Shahir (making his Tamil debut), Junior M.G.R., and others. How Shahir’s performance resonated with the legacy of MGR—an icon deeply woven into Tamil cultural memory—adds depth to this endorsement.
Junior M.G.R.’s warm appraisal is significant, reflecting the enduring influence of his grandfather and the high expectations for Coolie, set to release on August 14, 2025. Industry insiders suggest that such recognition may boost Soubin Shahir’s visibility among Tamil audiences ahead of the film’s premiere.
