Chinnan Chirusugal was passed with an "A" (adults only) certificate by the Central Board of Film Certification without any cuts,[3] and was released on 11 December 1982.[4]Ananda Vikatan said the best character in the film was Prabhu, but was dismayed since he is introduced only mid-way through the story.[5] Thiraignani of Kalki panned Mohan's acting, Moorthy's humour as vulgar and Sulakshana's character design.[6] Balumani of Anna praised the acting of cast, Moorthy's humour and Mahadevan's music but found nothing great about the direction and called it just ordinary film.[7]
