Chennai, Oct 1 (IANS): After initial obstacles, superstar Vijay's Tamil fantasy drama "Puli" finally hit the screens worldwide on Thursday from noon onwards.

The early morning shows of the film were cancelled on Thursday after theatres failed to receive clearance from Qube, the company that streams movies digitally.

It was only after actor Vijay intervened and settled all the dues that the clearance was given to theatres by Qube.

"Due to the Income Tax raid on Wednesday, Vijay and the producers of the 'Puli' weren't allowed to transfer funds. This morning Vijay went to Gemini labs and settled all the dues and subsequently the theatres were given the nod to screen the film from noon," a source from the industry told IANS.

The film's overseas distributor Atmus Entertainment also confirmed via their Twitter page that "Puli" will release shortly.

"'Puli' to start roaring in few mins in USA. Clearance letter received by Real Image and KDMs started," Atmus posted on Twitter.

Directed by Chimbu Deven, the film also stars Sridevi, Shruti Haasan and Hansika Motwani in important roles.