Periyar
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The film Periyar is undoubtedly another step forward for Gnana Rajasekaran, for his finesse with script and for having given an endearing portrayal of EV Ramaswamy Naicker, popularly known as Periyar.
Periyar, which seeks to revisit the seeming struggle of a man to bring equality among humans, challenge (what he saw as) meaningless superstition and dogma in the society and uplift the underprivileged, has also succeeded in demystifying some of the actions of Periyar.
For instance, the film Periyar makes it clear that he did not believe anyone in his party and that he married Maniammai only because she would be a good companion and not for 'any pleasure'.
The movie begins with Ramasami, who even as a young man challenges superstitious religious practices, astrology and all that he sees as discriminatory. Persuaded by Rajaji and others he joins the Indian National Congress but is embittered by opposition to the idea of reservation, quits the biggest political organisation of his times to fully devote himself for the uplift of the lower castes.
Thus the events leading to Periyar's arrival at the Justice Party, which later becomes Dravidar Kazhagam and the exit of C N Annadurai and others to form the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam are all told without any sagging of interest.
One of the admirable things about the movie is the choice of the cast. For Satyaraj, the movie is a refreshing change from his usual films and he has done a remarkable job in recreating the magnetism, fearlessness and the mischievous wit of Periyar.
Jyotirmayi's performance as Nagammal is excellent and Kushboo proves that she is the right choice for the role of Maniammayar. SS Stanley is a right fit for the cast of C N Annadurai and Arthi Kumar does well as Rajaji.
One obvious thing about the Periyar is that Gnana Rajasekaran has packed the movie with as many real life incidents Periyar as possible. Of course, he could have avoided some and given a better treatment to a few chosen ones. The stature of Rajaji deservew a better portrayal.
While Gnana Rajasekaran has brought alive the spirit of a bygone era, Vidyasagar's music gives life to the dominant theme of the movie.
Vairamuthu's lyrics, especially the Nee Kadavula Kalla is good. And Thangar Bachan's camera is a visual treat.
Periyar was a contentious figure. The film too must have some controversial segments. One gets the feeling that some of the present big leaders, who had actually fallen out with Periyar in his days, get a more than flattering portrayal in the movie. But could it be because the government has bankrolled a major part of the movie? Surely, Periyar, who had a sense for sarcasm, would have helped himself to a worry smile at this.
