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| image = Parasakthi.jpg
| image = Parasakthi.jpg
| director = R. Krishnan<br/> S. Panju
| director = R. Krishnan<br/> S. Panju
| caption = Promotional poster
| writer = [[M. Karunanidhi]]
| writer = [[M. Karunanidhi]]
| starring = [[Sivaji Ganesan]]<br />[[Pandari Bai]]<br />[[S. S. Rajendran]]<br />S. V. Sahasranam<br />[[Sriranjani (junior)|Sriranjani]]
| starring = [[Sivaji Ganesan]]<br />[[Pandari Bai]]<br />[[S. S. Rajendran]]<br />S. V. Sahasranam<br />[[Sriranjani (junior)|Sriranjani]]
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}}
}}


'''''Parasakthi''''' ({{lang-en|The Goddess}}) is a 1952 [[Indian cinema|Indian]] [[Kollywood|Tamil]] film directed by R. Krishnan and S. Panju. The film stars [[Sivaji Ganesan]] in his debut, [[Pandari Bai]], [[S. S. Rajendran]], S. V. Sahasranamam and [[Sriranjani (junior)|Sriranjani]]. It was produced by [[A. V. Meiyappan|AVM]]. The dialogues for the film were penned by writer [[M. Karunanidhi]] who later became the [[Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu]].<ref name="landmarks">{{cite web|url=http://www.indiafilm.com/lm.htm|title=Land Marks in Tamil cinema|accessdate=27 April 2008|publisher=indiafilm.com}}</ref> The film tells the story of three Indian brothers living in Burma, who are decide to attend their sister's wedding at their hometown, but only one of them arrives and later loses his belongings, eventually becoming insane. ''Parasakthi'' was critically acclaimed and commercially successful, most notably for its dialogues. It later became a "trend setter" for dialogues and acting. Several Tamil films came after this with dialogue orientation and became hugely successful.<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 3"/> The film celebrated its "diamond jubilee" year in January 2013.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-tamilnadu/parasakthi-completes-60-years/article4281843.ece | title=NATIONAL / TAMIL NADU : ‘Parasakthi’ completes 60 years | author=M. Vandhana | work=[[The Hindu]] | date=2013-01-07 | accessdate=2013-01-18}}</ref>
'''''Parasakthi''''' ({{lang-en|The Goddess}}) is a 1952 [[Indian cinema|Indian]] [[Kollywood|Tamil]] film directed by R. Krishnan and S. Panju. The film stars [[Sivaji Ganesan]] in his debut, [[Pandari Bai]], [[S. S. Rajendran]], S. V. Sahasranamam and [[Sriranjani (junior)|Sriranjani]]. It was produced by [[A. V. Meiyappan|AVM]]. The dialogues for the film were penned by writer [[M. Karunanidhi]] who later became the [[Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu]].<ref name="landmarks">{{cite web|url=http://www.indiafilm.com/lm.htm|title=Land Marks in Tamil cinema|accessdate=27 April 2008|publisher=indiafilm.com}}</ref> The film tells the story of three Indian brothers living in Burma, who are decide to attend their sister's wedding at their hometown, but only one of them arrives and later loses his belongings, eventually becoming insane. ''Parasakthi'' was critically acclaimed and commercially successful, most notably for its dialogues. It later became a "trend setter" for dialogues and acting. Several Tamil films came after this with dialogue orientation and became hugely successful.<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 3"/> The film celebrated its "diamond jubilee" year in January 2013.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-tamilnadu/parasakthi-completes-60-years/article4281843.ece | title=‘Parasakthi’ completes 60 years | work=[[The Hindu]] | date=2013-01-07 | accessdate=2013-01-18 | author=M. Vandhana}}</ref>


==Plot==
==Plot==
Line 30: Line 31:
Meanwhile, as Japanese shelling intensifies in Burma, Chandrasekaran and Gnanasekaran decide to return to India. But Gnanasekaran is lost in the journey and is presumed dead. However, he loses one leg in the shelling and lands in Madras. He begs for a living, forms an association for beggars and tries to reform them. Kalyani goes through several struggles as everyone tries to take advantage of her loneliness, but is saved by Gunasekaran every time. Finally, she seeks protection in a temple, but the temple priest ([[V. K. Ramasamy (actor)|V. K. Ramasamy]]) tries to molest her. Frustrated with life and unable to feed her child, she throws it into a river and attempts suicide, but is soon arrested for killing the child.
Meanwhile, as Japanese shelling intensifies in Burma, Chandrasekaran and Gnanasekaran decide to return to India. But Gnanasekaran is lost in the journey and is presumed dead. However, he loses one leg in the shelling and lands in Madras. He begs for a living, forms an association for beggars and tries to reform them. Kalyani goes through several struggles as everyone tries to take advantage of her loneliness, but is saved by Gunasekaran every time. Finally, she seeks protection in a temple, but the temple priest ([[V. K. Ramasamy (actor)|V. K. Ramasamy]]) tries to molest her. Frustrated with life and unable to feed her child, she throws it into a river and attempts suicide, but is soon arrested for killing the child.


Gunasekaran attacks the priest who tried to molest his sister, and lands in prison. Kalyani fights her case in court, the judge (Chandrasekaran) later faints on knowing that she is his sister. Gunasekaran fights a battle in court, explaining the misfortunes which had befallen him and his family, and justifies his actions. Gunasekaran's valiant defense in court awakens everyone on the evils of the society. Then arrives Vimala ([[Pandari Bai]]), a rich girl who had fallen for Gunasekaran earlier, who produces Kalyani's child which was revealed to have fallen in her boat instead of the river. Kalyani and Gunasekaran are pardoned and acquitted. A series of events leads to the entire family ultimately reuniting, and they work towards the upliftment of the poor and needy by opening a home for them.
Gunasekaran attacks the priest who tried to molest his sister, and lands in prison. Kalyani fights her case in court, the judge (Chandrasekaran) later faints on knowing that she is his sister. Gunasekaran fights a battle in court, explaining the misfortunes which had befallen him and his family, and justifies his actions. Gunasekaran's valiant defense in court awakens everyone on the evils of the society. Then arrives Vimala ([[Pandari Bai]]), a wealthy and educated girl who had fallen for Gunasekaran earlier, who produces Kalyani's child which was revealed to have fallen in her boat instead of the river. Kalyani and Gunasekaran are pardoned and acquitted. A series of events leads to the entire family ultimately reuniting, and they work towards the upliftment of the poor and needy by opening a home for them.


==Cast==
==Cast==
* [[Sivaji Ganesan]] as Gunasekaran
* [[Sivaji Ganesan]] as Gunasekaran
* [[Sriranjani (junior)|Sriranjani]] as Kalyani
* [[Sriranjani Jr.]] as Kalyani
* [[Pandari Bai]] as Vimala
* [[Pandari Bai]] as Vimala
* [[S. S. Rajendran]] as Gnanasekaran
* [[S. S. Rajendran]] as Gnanasekaran
Line 47: Line 48:


== Production ==
== Production ==
A. V. Meiyappan's newly established [[AVM Productions]] which was on a high, having produced a series of hits as ''[[Nam Iruvar]]'' and ''[[Vazhkai]]'' planned to make a film, later titled as ''Parasakthi'' in 1952 with a newcomer [[Sivaji Ganesan]], who had earlier [[dubbing (filmmaking)|dubbed]] for [[Telugu people|Telugu]] artist Mukkamala Krishnamurthi in the Tamil film ''[[Niraparadhi]]''. ''Parasakthi'' was inspired by a stage drama ''En Thangai'', which told the story of a brother sacrificing his love for the sake of his sightless sister. The role of the "loving brother" in this drama was played Sivaji Ganesan.<ref>http://www.hindu.com/cp/2008/11/14/stories/2008111450391600.htm</ref><ref name=BLAST/>
A. V. Meiyappan's newly established [[AVM Productions]] which was on a high, having produced a series of hits as ''[[Nam Iruvar]]'' and ''[[Vazhkai]]'' planned to make a film, later titled as ''Parasakthi'' in 1952 with a newcomer [[Sivaji Ganesan]], who had earlier [[dubbing (filmmaking)|dubbed]] for [[Telugu people|Telugu]] artist Mukkamala Krishnamurthi in the Tamil film ''[[Niraparadhi]]''. ''Parasakthi'' was inspired by a stage drama ''En Thangai'', which told the story of a brother sacrificing his love for the sake of his sightless sister. The role of the "loving brother" in this drama was played Sivaji Ganesan.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hindu.com/cp/2008/11/14/stories/2008111450391600.htm |title=Cinema Plus / Columns : Niraparadhi 1951 |publisher=The Hindu |date=2008-11-14 |accessdate=2013-03-19}}</ref><ref name=BLAST/>


However, ''Parasakthi'' did not begin well for Ganesan. The directors, Krishnan and Panju, worked hard with the newcomer and after a few thousands of feet were canned, Meiyappan and his crew viewed the rough-cut footage and were disappointed, feeling that Ganesan was not the right choice. Meiyappan suggested that the hero be replaced by K. R. Ramasami. But producer P. A. Perumal was not convinced. He had great faith in Ganesan and was not ready to heed Meiyappan's advice. Therefore, he stopped for quite a while and Ganesan had no option but to undergo long stretches of intense mental agony, and insecurity, until Perumal decided to continue with him.<ref name=BLAST/> Ganesan was paid a monthly salary of {{INR}} 250 for acting in the film.<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 3">{{cite journal| url=https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=492798880761552&l=bd47d0a8d5 | title=Parasakthi - Ultimate Goddess | journal=Galatta Magazine | year=2012 | month=August | volume=6 | issue=5 | page= pg. 128 | accessdate=13 January 2013}}</ref>
However, ''Parasakthi'' did not begin well for Ganesan. The directors, Krishnan and Panju, worked hard with the newcomer and after a few thousands of feet were canned, Meiyappan and his crew viewed the rough-cut footage and were disappointed, feeling that Ganesan was not the right choice. Meiyappan suggested that the hero be replaced by K. R. Ramasami. But producer P. A. Perumal was not convinced. He had great faith in Ganesan and was not ready to heed Meiyappan's advice. Therefore, he stopped for quite a while and Ganesan had no option but to undergo long stretches of intense mental agony, and insecurity, until Perumal decided to continue with him.<ref name=BLAST/> Ganesan was paid a monthly salary of {{INR}} 250 for acting in the film.<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 3">{{cite journal | url=https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=492798880761552&l=bd47d0a8d5 | title=Parasakthi - Ultimate Goddess | accessdate=13 January 2013 | journal=Galatta Cinema | year=2012 | month=August | volume=6 | issue=5 | page=pg. 128}}</ref> Actress [[Raja Sulochana]] was initially cast as the female lead, but opted out due to her pregnancy, and was eventually replaced by [[Sriranjani Jr.]]<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/the-queen-of-the-screen/article4478600.ece | title=The queen of the screen | work=The Hindu | date=March 5, 2013 | accessdate=March 19, 2013 | author=Randor Guy}}</ref>


Made at an impressive budget and with dialogues penned by eminent writer [[M. Karunanidhi]], the film critically examined the social issues at the time. By the time the film was off the theatres, it had created a revolution.<ref name="sivaji_tribute">{{cite web|url=http://www.idlebrain.com/celeb/bio-data/bio-sivaji.html|title=Tribute-Sivaji Ganesan|accessdate=2008-04-27|publisher=idlebrain.com|author=PSK}}</ref> Today, it forms a part of Tamil political history and comprises an unforgettable chapter in the history of the Dravidian Movement.<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 2">{{cite journal|title=Parasakthi - Ultimate Goddess|journal=Galatta Magazine|year=2012|month=August|volume=6|issue=5|page=pg. 127|url=https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=492798860761554&l=47e93b66ed|accessdate=17 January 2013}}</ref> The film's climax song ''Ellorum Vazha Vendum'' used stock footage of the political leaders [[Rajaji]], [[Periyar E. V. Ramasamy|E.V.Ra Periyar]], [[Bhakthavatchalam]], [[Annadurai]] and Karunanidhi.<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 3"/>
Made at an impressive budget and with dialogues penned by eminent writer [[M. Karunanidhi]], the film critically examined the social issues at the time. By the time the film was off the theatres, it had created a revolution.<ref name="sivaji_tribute">{{cite web|url=http://www.idlebrain.com/celeb/bio-data/bio-sivaji.html|title=Tribute-Sivaji Ganesan|accessdate=2008-04-27|publisher=idlebrain.com|author=PSK}}</ref> Today, it forms a part of Tamil political history and comprises an unforgettable chapter in the history of the Dravidian Movement.<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 2">{{cite journal|title=Parasakthi - Ultimate Goddess|journal=Galatta Magazine|year=2012|month=August|volume=6|issue=5|page=pg. 127|url=https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=492798860761554&l=47e93b66ed|accessdate=17 January 2013}}</ref> The film's climax song ''Ellorum Vazha Vendum'' used stock footage of the political leaders [[Rajaji]], [[Periyar E. V. Ramasamy|E.V.Ra Periyar]], [[Bhakthavatchalam]], [[Annadurai]] and Karunanidhi.<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 3"/>


==Soundtrack==
==Soundtrack==
The music of ''Parasakthi'' was composed by R. Sudarsanam. Lyrics for the songs were written by [[Kannadasan]], [[M. Karunanidhi]], T.N. Ramaiah Nadu and [[Bharathidasan]].<ref>http://www.raaga.com/channels/tamil/album/T0001758.html</ref>
The music of ''Parasakthi'' was composed by R. Sudarsanam. Lyrics for the songs were written by [[Kannadasan]], [[M. Karunanidhi]], T.N. Ramaiah Nadu and [[Bharathidasan]].<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.raaga.com/channels/tamil/album/T0001758.html | title=Parasakthi Songs | work=Raaga.com | accessdate=2013-03-19}}</ref>


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 82: Line 83:
| 11|| "Vaazhga Vaazhgave" || M. L. Vasanthakumari || 05:00
| 11|| "Vaazhga Vaazhgave" || M. L. Vasanthakumari || 05:00
|}
|}

===Reception===
The August 2012 issue of ''Galatta Magazine'' rated the songs as "hugely popular" and stated that the songs would be "remembered even today".<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 3"/> In contrast, film critic Balaji Balasubramaniam said, "Barring a couple, none of the songs are memorable. Consequently some of them, like the duet between Sriranjini and her husband, test our patience."<ref name=BALAJI>[http://www.bbthots.com/reviews/rewind/psakthi.html Parasakthi]. Bbthots.com. Retrieved on 2013-01-13.</ref>


==Release==
==Release==
Line 91: Line 89:
===Critical reception===
===Critical reception===
[[Image:Sivaji Parasakthi.jpg|thumb|right|200px|The court scene from the film, which propelled [[Sivaji Ganesan]] to stardom overnight|thumb]]
[[Image:Sivaji Parasakthi.jpg|thumb|right|200px|The court scene from the film, which propelled [[Sivaji Ganesan]] to stardom overnight|thumb]]
⚫
''Parasakthi'' received critical acclaim, with major praises for its dialogues and Sivaji Ganesan's performance. [[Randor Guy]] of ''[[The Hindu]]'' praised the film for the "dialogue and the stunning performance of the new hero", and further stated that "Tamil cinema was never the same again. A new kind of history, which would have far-reaching consequences, was beginning to be made."<ref name=BLAST>{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/cp/2011/04/24/stories/2011042450301600.htm|title=Blast from the Past: Parasakthi|publisher=[[The Hindu]]|author=[[Randor Guy]]|date=April 24, 2011|accessdate=January 1, 2012}}</ref> P. Balasubramania Mudaliar, editor of ''Sunday Observer'' wrote, "The story is simple but it has been made powerful by Mr.Karunanidhi by his beautiful dialogues. Mr.Shivaji Ganesan,who plays the main role dominates from the beginning to the end."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.freewebs.com/pammalar/filmreviews.htm |title=Film Reviews - Nadigar Thilagam SIVAJI GANESAN |publisher=Freewebs.com |date= |accessdate=2013-03-19}}</ref> Film historian [[S. Theodore Baskaran]] said, "Parasakthi is a landmark film because the script written by M Karunanidhi contained a lot of reformist ideas of the Dravidian movement. It also brought great importance to the highly literary, flowery language in films."<ref>http://health.rediff.com/millenni/theod.htm</ref>


''IndiaGlitz'' said, "One can never forget the impeccable and revolutionary dialogues from Parasakthi. Former chief minister M.Karunanidhi's power packed dialogues and Shivaji Ganesan's master class acting made this movie a unforgettable watch" and concluded, "Ask your grandfather and Parasakthi would be the impromptu answer."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/89358.html |title=End of the world movies: - Tamil Movie News |publisher=Indiaglitz.com |date=2012-12-20 |accessdate=2013-03-19}}</ref> ''Behindwoods'' praised the film for the "fiery dialogues, talented direction, and terrific acting by the cast".<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies-slide-shows/movie-1/social/tamil-cinema-social-parasakthi.html | title=tamil cinema social awareness | work=Behindwoods | date=2006-11-26 | accessdate=2013-03-19}}</ref> Author Muthiah S, in his book ''Madras Miscellany'' said that ''Parasakthi'' "showed Karunanidhi as the master of meaningful screen dialogue that carried forceful messages to the masses".<ref>{{cite book | url=http://books.google.co.in/books?id=QHtZG8beGy4C&pg=PT392&lpg=PT392&dq=parasakthi | title=Madras Miscellany | publisher=East West Books | author=Muthiah S | year=2011 | ISBN=978-93-80032-84-9}}</ref>
⚫
''Parasakthi'' received critical acclaim, with major praises for its dialogues and Sivaji Ganesan's performance. [[Randor Guy]] of ''[[The Hindu]]'' praised the film for the "dialogue and the stunning performance of the new hero", and further stated that "Tamil cinema was never the same again. A new kind of history, which would have far-reaching consequences, was beginning to be made."<ref name=BLAST>{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/cp/2011/04/24/stories/2011042450301600.htm|title=Blast from the Past: Parasakthi|publisher=[[The Hindu]]|author=[[Randor Guy]]|date=April 24, 2011|accessdate=January 1, 2012}}</ref> P. Balasubramania Mudaliar, editor of ''Sunday Observer'' wrote, "The story is simple but it has been made powerful by Mr.Karunanidhi by his beautiful dialogues. Mr.Shivaji Ganesan,who plays the main role dominates from the beginning to the end."<ref>http://www.freewebs.com/pammalar/filmreviews.htm</ref> Balaji Balasubramaniam said, "Ofcourse [sic] the courtroom scene is legendary with Sivaji's 5-minute, non-stop tirade against the people who made life a living hell for his sister" and further pointed out, "Both the dialogs [sic] and the actor take equal credit for making the scene as effective as it turns out to be." He also praised the performances of the other actors and said, "[[S. S. Rajendran|SSR]] gives a hint of his famous diction and dialog delivery during his argument with the guard at the refugee camp. Respected senior actor S.V.Sahasranamam is impressive when he cries over his sister's plight. But [[Sriranjani (junior)|Sriranjini]] is rather wooden with her monologue in the courtroom not delivered with the strong emotions it deserves. [[V. K. Ramasamy (actor)|V.K.Ramaswamy]] makes a believable corrupt businessman."<ref name=BALAJI/>


''IndiaGlitz'' said, "One can never forget the impeccable and revolutionary dialogues from Parasakthi. Former chief minister M.Karunanidhi's power packed dialogues and Shivaji Ganesan's master class acting made this movie a unforgettable watch" and concluded, "Ask your grandfather and Parasakthi would be the impromptu answer."<ref>http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/89358.html</ref> ''Behindwoods'' praised the film for the "fiery dialogues, talented direction, and terrific acting by the cast".<ref>http://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies-slide-shows/movie-1/social/tamil-cinema-social-parasakthi.html</ref> In an interview with ''The Hindu'', director [[Balu Mahendra]] said, "‘Parasakthi’s’ heavy dialogue (written in chaste Tamil by the current Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi) coupled with a stunning performance by newcomer, Sivaji Ganesan, make it a favourite."<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.hindu.com/fr/2007/07/13/stories/2007071350330100.htm | title=Filmmakers’ favourites | work=The Hindu | date=13 July 2007 | accessdate=2 March 2013 | author=S. R. Ashok Kumar}}</ref> In August 2012, ''Galatta Magazine'' said, "The impact of the film can be felt even after 60 years among the film loving audience, who fondly remember its dialogues, acting and songs", and called the film a "must watch".<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 1">{{cite journal|title=Parasakthi - Ultimate Goddess|journal=Galatta Magazine|year=2012|month=August|volume=6|issue=5|page=pg. 126|url=https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=492798687428238&l=2ce6cd4864|accessdate=17 January 2013}}</ref>
In an interview with ''The Hindu'', director [[Balu Mahendra]] said, "‘Parasakthi’s’ heavy dialogue (written in chaste Tamil by the current Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi) coupled with a stunning performance by newcomer, Sivaji Ganesan, make it a favourite."<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.hindu.com/fr/2007/07/13/stories/2007071350330100.htm | title=Filmmakers’ favourites | work=The Hindu | date=13 July 2007 | accessdate=2 March 2013 | author=S. R. Ashok Kumar}}</ref> In August 2012, entertainment magazine ''Galatta Cinema'' said, "The impact of the film can be felt even after 60 years among the film loving audience, who fondly remember its dialogues, acting and songs", and called the film a "must watch".<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 1">{{cite journal | url=https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=492798687428238&l=2ce6cd4864 | title=Parasakthi - Ultimate Goddess | accessdate=17 January 2013 | journal=Galatta Cinema | year=2012 | month=August | volume=6 | issue=5 | page=pg. 126}}</ref>


===Box office===
===Box office===
Regarded as the first significant attempt by the Dravidian Movement to use media for propaganda, the film catapulted [[Sivaji Ganesan]] to fame overnight and evoked comparisons with the [[Hollywood]] legend [[Spencer Tracy]].<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 3"/><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/2001/07/27/stories/09270225.htm|title=Talent, charisma and much more|publisher=[[The Hindu]]|date=July 27, 2001}}</ref> Specifically, his valiant defense in the court-scene filled with soul-stirring dialogues by [[M. Karunanidhi]] revolutionized the [[Tamil film industry]].<ref name=BLAST/> Released without any cuts, the film ran for over 100 days in theaters, and was officially declared a box-office hit.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/(docid)/85C3D48EE374C57965256941001E4B90 |title=Making history - The Hindu |publisher=Cscsarchive.org:8081 |date=2004-06-20 |accessdate=2012-05-15}}</ref> It later completed 200 days, being dubbed as a "silver jubilee" hit.<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 3"/>
Regarded as the first significant attempt by the Dravidian Movement to use media for propaganda, the film catapulted [[Sivaji Ganesan]] to fame overnight and evoked comparisons with the [[Hollywood]] legend [[Spencer Tracy]].<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 3"/><ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.hindu.com/2001/07/27/stories/09270225.htm | title=Talent, charisma and much more | publisher=[[The Hindu]] | date=July 27, 2001 | accessdate=19 March 2013}}</ref> Specifically, his valiant defense in the court-scene filled with soul-stirring dialogues by [[M. Karunanidhi]] revolutionized the [[Tamil film industry]].<ref name=BLAST/> Released without any cuts, the film ran for over 100 days in theaters, and was officially declared a box-office hit.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/(docid)/85C3D48EE374C57965256941001E4B90 |title=Making history - The Hindu |publisher=Cscsarchive.org:8081 |date=2004-06-20 |accessdate=2012-05-15}}</ref> It later completed 200 days, being dubbed as a "silver jubilee" hit.<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 3"/>


==Controversies==
==Controversies==

Revision as of 08:32, 19 March 2013

Parasakthi
File:Parasakthi.jpg
Promotional poster
Directed byR. Krishnan
S. Panju
Written byM. Karunanidhi
Produced byA. V. Meiyappan, P.A.Perumal Mudaliar
StarringSivaji Ganesan
Pandari Bai
S. S. Rajendran
S. V. Sahasranam
Sriranjani
CinematographyS. Maruti Rao
Music byR.Sudarsanam
Release date
17 October 1952[1]
Running time
170 minutes
CountryIndia
LanguageTamil

Parasakthi (English: The Goddess) is a 1952 Indian Tamil film directed by R. Krishnan and S. Panju. The film stars Sivaji Ganesan in his debut, Pandari Bai, S. S. Rajendran, S. V. Sahasranamam and Sriranjani. It was produced by AVM. The dialogues for the film were penned by writer M. Karunanidhi who later became the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.[2] The film tells the story of three Indian brothers living in Burma, who are decide to attend their sister's wedding at their hometown, but only one of them arrives and later loses his belongings, eventually becoming insane. Parasakthi was critically acclaimed and commercially successful, most notably for its dialogues. It later became a "trend setter" for dialogues and acting. Several Tamil films came after this with dialogue orientation and became hugely successful.[3] The film celebrated its "diamond jubilee" year in January 2013.[4]

Plot

Chandrasekaran (S. V. Sahasranamam), Gnanasekaran (S. S. Rajendran) and Gunasekaran (Sivaji Ganesan) are three brothers from India, who are settled in Burma. Their sister Kalyani (Sriranjani) is brought up in their hometown Madras by their father. Her marriage is fixed and the brothers plan to visit India to attend her wedding. As fate would have it, World War II erupts and Japan bombards Burmese ports. The Government permits only one person per family to board the ship to Madras. Gunasekaran, the youngest of the three brothers, wins the opportunity to go to Madras.

On arriving in Madras, he is robbed of his belongings by people who "befriended" him. He is hesitant to meet his family after losing everything, but decides to continue staying in Madras. Kalyani gets married as per schedule, but soon loses both her husband and her father in an accident. She delivers a child and is left destitute. She ekes out her living by hawking food on the streets. Gunasekaran finally finds Kalyani, but does not reveal his identity to her due to his poverty, yet hovers around to protect her. Kalyani finds his behavior (as a stranger) insane. He gets enraged at the happenings around the society, and becomes sarcastic.

Meanwhile, as Japanese shelling intensifies in Burma, Chandrasekaran and Gnanasekaran decide to return to India. But Gnanasekaran is lost in the journey and is presumed dead. However, he loses one leg in the shelling and lands in Madras. He begs for a living, forms an association for beggars and tries to reform them. Kalyani goes through several struggles as everyone tries to take advantage of her loneliness, but is saved by Gunasekaran every time. Finally, she seeks protection in a temple, but the temple priest (V. K. Ramasamy) tries to molest her. Frustrated with life and unable to feed her child, she throws it into a river and attempts suicide, but is soon arrested for killing the child.

Gunasekaran attacks the priest who tried to molest his sister, and lands in prison. Kalyani fights her case in court, the judge (Chandrasekaran) later faints on knowing that she is his sister. Gunasekaran fights a battle in court, explaining the misfortunes which had befallen him and his family, and justifies his actions. Gunasekaran's valiant defense in court awakens everyone on the evils of the society. Then arrives Vimala (Pandari Bai), a wealthy and educated girl who had fallen for Gunasekaran earlier, who produces Kalyani's child which was revealed to have fallen in her boat instead of the river. Kalyani and Gunasekaran are pardoned and acquitted. A series of events leads to the entire family ultimately reuniting, and they work towards the upliftment of the poor and needy by opening a home for them.

Cast

Production

A. V. Meiyappan's newly established AVM Productions which was on a high, having produced a series of hits as Nam Iruvar and Vazhkai planned to make a film, later titled as Parasakthi in 1952 with a newcomer Sivaji Ganesan, who had earlier dubbed for Telugu artist Mukkamala Krishnamurthi in the Tamil film Niraparadhi. Parasakthi was inspired by a stage drama En Thangai, which told the story of a brother sacrificing his love for the sake of his sightless sister. The role of the "loving brother" in this drama was played Sivaji Ganesan.[5][6]

However, Parasakthi did not begin well for Ganesan. The directors, Krishnan and Panju, worked hard with the newcomer and after a few thousands of feet were canned, Meiyappan and his crew viewed the rough-cut footage and were disappointed, feeling that Ganesan was not the right choice. Meiyappan suggested that the hero be replaced by K. R. Ramasami. But producer P. A. Perumal was not convinced. He had great faith in Ganesan and was not ready to heed Meiyappan's advice. Therefore, he stopped for quite a while and Ganesan had no option but to undergo long stretches of intense mental agony, and insecurity, until Perumal decided to continue with him.[6] Ganesan was paid a monthly salary of ₹ 250 for acting in the film.[3] Actress Raja Sulochana was initially cast as the female lead, but opted out due to her pregnancy, and was eventually replaced by Sriranjani Jr.[7]

Made at an impressive budget and with dialogues penned by eminent writer M. Karunanidhi, the film critically examined the social issues at the time. By the time the film was off the theatres, it had created a revolution.[8] Today, it forms a part of Tamil political history and comprises an unforgettable chapter in the history of the Dravidian Movement.[9] The film's climax song Ellorum Vazha Vendum used stock footage of the political leaders Rajaji, E.V.Ra Periyar, Bhakthavatchalam, Annadurai and Karunanidhi.[3]

Soundtrack

The music of Parasakthi was composed by R. Sudarsanam. Lyrics for the songs were written by Kannadasan, M. Karunanidhi, T.N. Ramaiah Nadu and Bharathidasan.[10]

No. Song Singers Length
1 "Desam Gnanam Kalvi" C. S. Jayaraman 03:26
2 "Kaa Kaa Kaa" C. S. Jayaraman 03:00
3 "Nenju Porkku Thillaiye" C. S. Jayaraman 04:50
4 "Ill Vaazhviniley" T. S. Bhagavathi, M.H. Hussain 02:07
5 "Puthu Pennin" M.S. Rajeswari 04:23
6 "Oh Rasikkum Seemane" M.S. Rajeswari 01:44
7 "Ellorum" T. S. Bhagavathi, M. L. Vasanthakumari 01:35
8 "Koneu Mozhi" T. S. Bhagavathi 03:03
9 "Poomaalai" T. S. Bhagavathi 03:01
10 "Porule Illaarkku" T. S. Bhagavathi 03:37
11 "Vaazhga Vaazhgave" M. L. Vasanthakumari 05:00

Release

After months of shooting and preparations, Parasakthi was released on 17 October 1952, coinciding with Diwali Day.[11] Though widely considered as Sivaji Ganesan's debut film, it was only his first that released; Ganesan's debut film as an actor was actually Poongothai, which was released as his sixth venture.[3]

Critical reception

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Parasakthi received critical acclaim, with major praises for its dialogues and Sivaji Ganesan's performance. Randor Guy of The Hindu praised the film for the "dialogue and the stunning performance of the new hero", and further stated that "Tamil cinema was never the same again. A new kind of history, which would have far-reaching consequences, was beginning to be made."[6] P. Balasubramania Mudaliar, editor of Sunday Observer wrote, "The story is simple but it has been made powerful by Mr.Karunanidhi by his beautiful dialogues. Mr.Shivaji Ganesan,who plays the main role dominates from the beginning to the end."[12] Film historian S. Theodore Baskaran said, "Parasakthi is a landmark film because the script written by M Karunanidhi contained a lot of reformist ideas of the Dravidian movement. It also brought great importance to the highly literary, flowery language in films."[13]

IndiaGlitz said, "One can never forget the impeccable and revolutionary dialogues from Parasakthi. Former chief minister M.Karunanidhi's power packed dialogues and Shivaji Ganesan's master class acting made this movie a unforgettable watch" and concluded, "Ask your grandfather and Parasakthi would be the impromptu answer."[14] Behindwoods praised the film for the "fiery dialogues, talented direction, and terrific acting by the cast".[15] Author Muthiah S, in his book Madras Miscellany said that Parasakthi "showed Karunanidhi as the master of meaningful screen dialogue that carried forceful messages to the masses".[16]

In an interview with The Hindu, director Balu Mahendra said, "‘Parasakthi’s’ heavy dialogue (written in chaste Tamil by the current Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi) coupled with a stunning performance by newcomer, Sivaji Ganesan, make it a favourite."[17] In August 2012, entertainment magazine Galatta Cinema said, "The impact of the film can be felt even after 60 years among the film loving audience, who fondly remember its dialogues, acting and songs", and called the film a "must watch".[11]

Box office

Regarded as the first significant attempt by the Dravidian Movement to use media for propaganda, the film catapulted Sivaji Ganesan to fame overnight and evoked comparisons with the Hollywood legend Spencer Tracy.[3][18] Specifically, his valiant defense in the court-scene filled with soul-stirring dialogues by M. Karunanidhi revolutionized the Tamil film industry.[6] Released without any cuts, the film ran for over 100 days in theaters, and was officially declared a box-office hit.[19] It later completed 200 days, being dubbed as a "silver jubilee" hit.[3]

Controversies

Parasakthi, despite being labelled as "hit of the year",[6] was marred by numerous controversies right from the onset. It was accused of trying to portray Brahmins in poor light. Abuse of Hindu customs and religious practices evoked strong protests from the Hindu orthodoxy. The then Chief Minister of Madras, Chakravarthi Rajagopalachari was unhappy with the extremely provocative nature of the film but allowed it to be screened. The State Government unsuccessfully requested the Union Government to reconsider film certification.[20] The film was labelled as "one of the most controversial films in the history of Tamil cinema".[21]

References

  1. ^ "Home - Parasakthi - Nadigar Thilagam's First Film". Parasakthi1.webs.com. 1952-10-17. Retrieved 2012-05-15.
  2. ^ "Land Marks in Tamil cinema". indiafilm.com. Retrieved 27 April 2008.
  3. ^ a b c d e f "Parasakthi - Ultimate Goddess". Galatta Cinema. 6 (5): pg. 128. 2012. Retrieved 13 January 2013. {{cite journal}}: |page= has extra text (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
  4. ^ M. Vandhana (2013-01-07). "'Parasakthi' completes 60 years". The Hindu. Retrieved 2013-01-18.
  5. ^ "Cinema Plus / Columns : Niraparadhi 1951". The Hindu. 2008-11-14. Retrieved 2013-03-19.
  6. ^ a b c d e Randor Guy (April 24, 2011). "Blast from the Past: Parasakthi". The Hindu. Retrieved January 1, 2012.
  7. ^ Randor Guy (March 5, 2013). "The queen of the screen". The Hindu. Retrieved March 19, 2013.
  8. ^ PSK. "Tribute-Sivaji Ganesan". idlebrain.com. Retrieved 2008-04-27.
  9. ^ "Parasakthi - Ultimate Goddess". Galatta Magazine. 6 (5): pg. 127. 2012. Retrieved 17 January 2013. {{cite journal}}: |page= has extra text (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
  10. ^ "Parasakthi Songs". Raaga.com. Retrieved 2013-03-19.
  11. ^ a b "Parasakthi - Ultimate Goddess". Galatta Cinema. 6 (5): pg. 126. 2012. Retrieved 17 January 2013. {{cite journal}}: |page= has extra text (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
  12. ^ "Film Reviews - Nadigar Thilagam SIVAJI GANESAN". Freewebs.com. Retrieved 2013-03-19.
  13. ^ http://health.rediff.com/millenni/theod.htm
  14. ^ "End of the world movies: - Tamil Movie News". Indiaglitz.com. 2012-12-20. Retrieved 2013-03-19.
  15. ^ "tamil cinema social awareness". Behindwoods. 2006-11-26. Retrieved 2013-03-19.
  16. ^ Muthiah S (2011). Madras Miscellany. East West Books. ISBN 978-93-80032-84-9.
  17. ^ S. R. Ashok Kumar (13 July 2007). "Filmmakers' favourites". The Hindu. Retrieved 2 March 2013.
  18. ^ "Talent, charisma and much more". The Hindu. July 27, 2001. Retrieved 19 March 2013.
  19. ^ "Making history - The Hindu". Cscsarchive.org:8081. 2004-06-20. Retrieved 2012-05-15.
  20. ^ A. Srivathsan (2006-06-12). "Films and the politics of convenience". Chennai, India: idlebrain.com. Retrieved 2008-04-27.
  21. ^ S. Theodore Baskaran (1996). The eye of the serpent: An introduction to Tamil cinema. p. 111. Retrieved 13 January 2013.

External links

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