Baththa (2026)
DirectorBalaji Tharaneetharan
StarringVijay Sethupathi, Lijomol Jose, Sai Prithviraj, Sahasra Sree
Watch onNot on major OTT platforms in India
Best for: Viewers who enjoy character-driven dramas with a mix of comedy and action, especially fans of Vijay Sethupathi and director Balaji Tharaneetharan.
Where to watch Baththa online in India
Baththa is not currently listed on major OTT platforms in India. We check availability every week.
Availability for India, data by JustWatch. Updated 24 October 2026.
Baththa story (no spoilers)
Set in 1986 Madras, Baththa follows a timid eight-year-old boy named Sabari who accidentally traps a feared gangster, Bathvachalam 'Baththa', inside a deserted school toilet. As the gangster is forced to confront hunger, loneliness and his own vulnerability, an unlikely bond begins to grow between the two. The film blends drama, comedy and action as this strange confinement changes both their lives forever. The tone shifts between the tension of a criminal stuck in a small space and the warmth of an unexpected connection. It is a story about how an accidental encounter can lead to profound personal change.
Should you watch Baththa?
Watch it for
- Vijay Sethupathi plays the feared gangster Bathvachalam 'Baththa', a role that promises a mix of menace and vulnerability.
- Director Balaji Tharaneetharan is known for blending comedy and drama, and this film is his take on an unusual bonding story.
- The 1986 Madras setting adds a nostalgic period flavour to the drama, comedy and action mix.
- At 159 minutes, the film gives ample time to develop the unlikely bond between the gangster and the eight-year-old boy.
Skip it if
- You prefer fast-paced action throughout; much of the film focuses on a confined situation and character interactions.
- You are not interested in period settings or stories that mix comedy with drama and action.
- You want a straightforward gangster film; this one centres on vulnerability and an unusual friendship rather than typical crime thrills.
Baththa cast
Vijay Sethupathias Bathvachalam 'Baththa'
Lijomol Joseas Kannima
Santhy Balachandranas Selvi
Arjun Chidambaramas Jyoti
Hari Krishnanas Thirunavukarasu
Ajay Ghoshas Konda
Deepa Venkatas Konda's wife
Ramya Pandianas Jayanthi
Vishnu Govindanas DelhiBaththa movie details
| Director | Balaji Tharaneetharan |
|---|---|
| Writer | Balaji Tharaneetharan |
| Music | Sai Abhyankkar |
| Cinematography | Selvakumar SK |
| Producer | Atlee, Murad Khetani, Alok Jain, Ajit Andhare |
| Release date | 1 October 2026 |
| Runtime | 2h 39m (159 minutes) |
| Original language | Tamil |
| Country of origin | India |
| Languages spoken in the film | Tamil |
| Original title | பத்தா |
| Certificate (India) | U/A 13+ |
Parental guide: is Baththa family friendly?
The U/A 13+ certificate suggests mild themes and violence, but this is a general guide; parents should use their discretion. This is a general guide based on genre and certification.
Baththa official trailer
Our verdict
Baththa offers a unique premise: a feared gangster trapped in a school toilet by a timid boy, leading to an unlikely bond. Vijay Sethupathi and director Balaji Tharaneetharan bring together drama, comedy and action in a 1986 Madras setting. It is an honest, character-focused film that may not suit those seeking non-stop action, but it rewards viewers interested in unusual relationships.
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KaalaFrequently asked questions
Where can I watch Baththa online in India?
Baththa is not currently listed on major Indian OTT platforms for free streaming.
When is Baththa releasing in theatres?
Baththa releases in Indian theatres on 1 October 2026.
Who is in the cast of Baththa?
The cast includes Vijay Sethupathi as Bathvachalam 'Baththa', Lijomol Jose as Kannima, Sai Prithviraj as Sabari, Sahasra Sree as Thenmozhi 'Thenu', Santhy Balachandran as Selvi, Arjun Chidambaram as Jyoti, Hari Krishnan as Thirunavukarasu and Ajay Ghosh as Konda.
Who directed Baththa?
Balaji Tharaneetharan directed Baththa.
What is the runtime and certificate of Baththa?
Baththa has a runtime of 159 minutes and is certified U/A 13+ in India.
Page last updated 24 October 2026. Facts from TMDB; how we write these pages: editorial policy.