V. V. Kathir, a former assistant director of
Seeman and
Surya Prakash, narrated the script to
R. B. Choudary, who liked it. The lead role was offered to actor
Jiiva who agreed to do the film. A photo session was completed in Pallavaram Hills. Jiiva's older brother,
Jithan Ramesh, had earlier starred in producer Anthony's
Puli Varudhu (2007).
Bhavana was originally slated to play the female lead but she left the film for unknown reasons.
Poonam Bajwa (who was also shooting for
Seval (2008) simultaneously) was then signed, thus making her debut in Tamil cinema.
Saranya Ponvannan was then cast to play the mother of Jiiva's character. Art director Roobesh created a huge set at YMCA resembling Koothaandavar Temple.
Thenavattu was the first Tamil film which displayed respect and dignity towards the transgender section of the society. The song "Usilampatti Sandhaiyile" was shot at Madurai and Theni. ==Soundtrack==