Hindi film actress Pooja Batra played her first lead role in Tamil cinema through the project.[2][3][4] While the film was in the post-production stage, Suresh Krissna moved on to begin work on two other projects starring Karthik and Vijay. Neither film later materialised.[5]
Oruvan was released on 25 June 1999.[8] Kala Krishnan Ramesh of Deccan Herald wrote, "The story, screenplay and direction by Suresh Krishna whose, earlier [Sangamam] or [Aha], was not as good. But Oruvan still has something to offer". They felt that Devayani was underutilised and Batra looks "gawky", while Sarathkumar was "good and pleasant to watch".[9] Thamarai Manalan of Dinakaran gave the film a positive review, noting Suresh Krishna "has extracted hard and good work from the artists. The way in which he has conceived as well as picturized the passionate and emotive scenes connected with the small boy Vikky has earned the former our great appreciation."[10] K. P. S. of Kalki praised the performances of Sarathkumar and Anandraj, Deva's music and Saravanan's cinematography.[11] D. S. Ramanujam of The Hindu wrote, "SARAT KUMAR gives a temporary respite to his firebrand roles and plays a character filled with tender emotions and sentiments in Lakshmi Movie Makers', Oruvan. Experienced director Suresh Krishna works up adequate situations, based on his story and screenplay".[12] Vicky won the Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Child Artist.[13]
