Sethu is a 1999 Indian Tamil-language romantic drama film, written and directed by Bala in his debut. The film stars Vikram and Abitha. The score and soundtrack was composed by Ilaiyaraaja.

Bala is an Indian film director, screenwriter, and producer, working in Tamil cinema. Bala has been praised for "revolutionizing Tamil cinema" through his realistic, dark and disturbing depiction of the working class on celluloid screen. Shaji N. Karun, who headed the jury of the 56th National Film Awards, said, "Bala is unique in many ways. The way he changed Tamil cinema's character was commendable ... There were many who tried for a change. Among the new generation of filmmakers, Bala leads the pack in bringing a change in Tamil cinema's outlook and approach."