In the late 1990s, after a series of action films, including "Sengottai" (1996) and "Thaayin Manikodi" (1998), he teamed up again with Shankar in the political drama film "Mudhalvan" (1999). Portraying an ambitious TV journalist who receives the opportunity to become the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu for a day, Arjun offered bulk dates for filming the project to Shankar. The film subsequently won positive reviews with Arjun described as having "acquitted himself with aplomb in the challenging role". Arjun received the Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Actor for his role as well as numerous other nominations.