Vedham Pudhithu

Vedham Pudhithu is a groundbreaking Tamil drama film released in 1987. The movie features prominent actors of the Tamil film industry such as Sathyaraj, Saritha, Amala, Charu Hassan, Janagaraj, and Raja. Directed by Bharathiraja, one of the most influential directors of Indian cinema, the film is widely celebrated for its powerful storyline and standout performances.

The story of Vedham Pudhithu revolves around the harsh realities and evils of the cast system in a deep-rooted traditional society. It is a bold conversation on an untouched subject during the 80s, providing a fresh and innovative perspective to traditional social norms and beliefs, thus the name Vedham Pudhithu, which translates to 'newly learned scripture.'

Sathyaraj gives a magnetic performance as Balu Thevar, who strongly despises the caste-based divisions plaguing his village. His character is shown as a beacon of change in society, attempting to challenge and upset the status quo. This unique role was quite different from the conventional roles he played at that time, adding another dimension to his acting versatility.

Saritha and Amala, two critically acclaimed performers of that time, brilliantly essayed their roles as strong women who are also affected by the evils of the caste system. Saritha's role stands out in a society where she is fighting against her own existing patriarchal system, while Amala's role is no less significant, embodying the voice of the oppressed.

Raja and Charu Hassan, provide strong supporting roles that add depth to the proceedings. Their layered performances contribute significantly to explore the theme of the film concerning the caste structure.

The script, penned by Kannan, was a social criticism that courageously challenges the rigid caste system, and is considered one of Tamil cinema's prominent themes. The film's message has an underlying temperament of the anti-caste sentiment and is a critique of the societal traditions that prohibit the unity of different caste groups.

Bharathiraja's stalwart direction and his prowess in storytelling give the film a realistic touch. His ability to extract powerful performances from the cast makes Vedham Pudhithu a classic in the Tamil cinema landscape.

The film's exceptional cinematography translates the raw emotions and the intense sensitivity of the script on screen. It also manages to capture the picturesque landscapes of rural South India, taking the audience on a visual journey and enhancing the depth of the narrative.

The music in Vedham Pudhithu plays a fundamental role, and none other than legendary music director Devendran has skilfully composed it. The songs have been integrated seamlessly into the storyline and perfectly capture the film's essence. The background score is poignant and effectively heightens the drama unfolding on screen.

Notably, Vedham Pudhithu remains etched in the audience's mind due to its bold narrative, daring to disturb the traditional orthodox beliefs and norms challenging the societal fabric's status quo in the late '80s. Further, the film has an inherent questioning nature that compels its audience to reflect deeply on their held beliefs regarding the caste system.

In conclusion, Vedham Pudhithu is a cinematic achievement that transcends the barriers of its time to deliver a message that is pertinent even to the current day. The performances are unforgettable, the direction is excellent, and the music beautifully stage every scene. It is a movie that leaves a deep impact on viewers and invites them to question societal norms and prejudices that continue to permeate society. The film, therefore, establishes itself as a timeless classic of Tamil cinema.