Tamil actor Karthik says he knew his son Gautham Karthik, who is making his debut with Mani Ratnam's forthcoming Tamil romantic-drama "Kadal", was in safe hands and that was why he never visited him on the sets.

"The day my son (Gautham) was cast in Mani sir's film, I knew he was in safe hands. I didn't have to worry at all. In fact, being a father, I didn't even visit my son on the sets because Mani sir whom I also consider a father-like figure was taking care of him," Karthik said.

Gautham is cast opposite Thulasi Nair, another debutant and daughter of yesteryear Tamil actress Radha.

The film, which is written, produced and directed by Ratnam, also stars Arvind Swamy, Arjun, Lakshmi Manchu and Thambi Ramaiah in important roles.

"Mani sir casts someone only if he or she is suitable for a role. I suppose he found my son apt for the role in the film and I'm happy he got the opportunity," said Karthik.

The story of the film, which has music by A.R Rahman, is centred around the lives of Christian fishermen and releases worldwide Feb 1.