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Chandrasekaran, Gnanasekaran and Gunasekaran are three [[India]]n immigrant brothers living in [[Rangoon]], [[Burma]]. Their younger sister Kalyani was brought up in their hometown [[Madras]] by their father. Her marriage is fixed and the brothers plan to visit India to attend the 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. The ship however fails to reach Madras on time due to the dangers of the war, and Kalyani's marriage takes place without Gunasekaran attending it.
Chandrasekaran, Gnanasekaran and Gunasekaran are three [[India]]n immigrant brothers living in [[Rangoon]], [[Burma]]. Their younger sister Kalyani was brought up in their hometown [[Madras]] by their father. Her marriage is fixed and the brothers plan to visit India to attend the 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. The ship however fails to reach Madras on time due to the dangers of the war, and Kalyani's marriage takes place without Gunasekaran attending it.


In course of time, Kalyani becomes pregnant. But on the day she delivers her child, her husband and her father die, leaving her and the child destitute. Her house now [[auction]]ed off, she makes her living by hawking food on the streets. After several months, Gunasekaran finally arrives in Madras but is robbed of all his belongings, after being given an [[Alcohol intoxication|intoxicating brew]]. Reduced to the status of a pauper, he is hesitant to meet his family but decides to stay in Madras. After Gunasekaran learns of his father's death and Kalyani's poverty, he finally comes across his destitute sister at [[Madurai]], but does not reveal his identity to her due to his poverty, yet hovers around to protect her. Kalyani is irritated by the stranger's "insane" behavior. He gets enraged by the happenings around the society and becomes sarcastic.
As time passes, Kalyani becomes pregnant. But on the day she delivers her child, her husband and her father die, leaving her and the child destitute. Her house now [[auction]]ed off, she makes her living by hawking food on the streets. After several months, Gunasekaran finally arrives in Madras but is robbed of all his belongings, after being given an [[Alcohol intoxication|intoxicating brew]]. Reduced to the status of a pauper, he is hesitant to meet his family but decides to stay in Madras. After Gunasekaran learns of his father's death and Kalyani's poverty, he finally comes across his destitute sister at [[Madurai]], but does not reveal his identity to her due to his poverty, yet hovers around to protect her. Kalyani is irritated by the stranger's "insane" behavior. He gets enraged by the happenings around the society and becomes sarcastic.


Kalyani is nearly molested by a [[vagabond (person)|vagabond]] named Venu, but is quickly saved by Gunasekaran. She later leaves Madurai and arrives at [[Tiruchi]], where she gets employed as maid of [[blackmarketeer]] Narayana Pillai, who appears honest and religious to the outside world. He also tries to molest her, though she is later saved, and leaves the job. When searching for his sister, Gunasekaran comes across Vimala, a wealthy woman to who he explains the miserable status of him and his sister in the society. She gives him shelter in her house, but soon he leaves silently, resuming his search for Kalyani.
Kalyani is nearly molested by a [[vagabond (person)|vagabond]] named Venu, but is quickly saved by Gunasekaran. She later leaves Madurai and arrives at [[Tiruchi]], where she gets employed as the maid of [[blackmarketeer]] Narayana Pillai, who appears honest to the outside world. He also tries to molest her, though she is later saved, and leaves the job. When searching for his sister, Gunasekaran comes across Vimala, a wealthy woman to who he explains the miserable status of him and his sister in the society. She gives him shelter in her house, but soon he leaves silently, and continues to search for Kalyani.


Meanwhile, as Japanese shelling intensifies in Burma, Chandrasekaran and Gnanasekaran decide to return to India. Chandrasekaran reaches India safely and becomes a session judge, 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 reaches Chandrasekaran's palatial house seeking food, but Chandrasekaran throws her out without recognising her. Finally, she seeks protection in a temple, but the temple priest also tries to molest her. Frustrated with life and unable to feed her child, Kalyani 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. Chandrasekaran reaches India safely and becomes a session judge, 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 reaches Chandrasekaran's palatial house seeking food, but Chandrasekaran throws her out without recognising her. Finally, she seeks protection in a temple, but the temple priest also tries to molest her. Frustrated with life and unable to feed her child, Kalyani throws it into a river and attempts suicide, but is soon arrested for killing the child.
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''Parasakthi'' was a popular Tamil play <!--when? mention year/decade--> written by Pavalar Balasundaram, a Tamil scholar. Around the same time, ''En Thangai'' (My Sister), written by T. S. Natarajan, became popular. [[Sivaji Ganesan]], at that time a struggling stage actor, acted in ''En Thangai'' as "a brother sacrificing his love for the sake of his sightless kid sister". The pre-production crew at Central Studio, [[Coimbatore]], initially planned to merge these two plays to make a film. However, Natarajan, the author of ''En Thangai'' disagreed to the idea, and indeed sold the rights of the play to another producer. The shooting of the film ''[[En Thangai]]'' began with Tiruchi Loganathan, then a popular playback artist, playing the lead role of the sacrificing brother. However, his performance was deemed poor by the director Ch. Narayanamurthy, and he was replaced by [[M. G. Ramachandran]]. Meanwhile, film distributor P. A. Perumal of National Pictures, with the patronage of [[Avichi Meiyappa Chettiar|A. V. Meiyappan]] of [[AVM Productions]], bought film rights of ''Parasakthi''. [[Mu. Karunanidhi]] was signed to write the script. Sivaji Ganesan, the stage actor of ''En Thangai'' was chosen to play the hero.<ref name="BLAST" /> Ganesan had earlier dubbed for [[Telugu cinema|Telugu]] actor [[Mukkamala Krishnamurthi]] in the 1951 Tamil film ''[[Niraparadhi]]''.<ref name="Niraparadhi">{{cite web | url=http://www.hindu.com/cp/2008/11/14/stories/2008111450391600.htm | title=Niraparadhi 1951 | work=The Hindu | date=14 November 2011 | accessdate=19 March 2013 | author=Randor Guy | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6FYevXcsT | archivedate=1 April 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.hindu.com/2001/07/27/stories/09270225.htm | title=Talent, charisma and much more | work=[[The Hindu]] | date=27 July 2001 | accessdate=19 March 2013 | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6FYeUtgP9 | archivedate=1 April 2013}}</ref>
''Parasakthi'' was a popular Tamil play <!--when? mention year/decade--> written by Pavalar Balasundaram, a Tamil scholar. Around the same time, ''En Thangai'' (My Sister), written by T. S. Natarajan, became popular. [[Sivaji Ganesan]], at that time a struggling stage actor, acted in ''En Thangai'' as "a brother sacrificing his love for the sake of his sightless kid sister". The pre-production crew at Central Studio, [[Coimbatore]], initially planned to merge these two plays to make a film. However, Natarajan, the author of ''En Thangai'' disagreed to the idea, and indeed sold the rights of the play to another producer. The shooting of the film ''[[En Thangai]]'' began with Tiruchi Loganathan, then a popular playback artist, playing the lead role of the sacrificing brother. However, his performance was deemed poor by the director Ch. Narayanamurthy, and he was replaced by [[M. G. Ramachandran]]. Meanwhile, film distributor P. A. Perumal of National Pictures, with the patronage of [[Avichi Meiyappa Chettiar|A. V. Meiyappan]] of [[AVM Productions]], bought film rights of ''Parasakthi''. [[Mu. Karunanidhi]] was signed to write the script. Sivaji Ganesan, the stage actor of ''En Thangai'' was chosen to play the hero.<ref name="BLAST" /> Ganesan had earlier dubbed for [[Telugu cinema|Telugu]] actor [[Mukkamala Krishnamurthi]] in the 1951 Tamil film ''[[Niraparadhi]]''.<ref name="Niraparadhi">{{cite web | url=http://www.hindu.com/cp/2008/11/14/stories/2008111450391600.htm | title=Niraparadhi 1951 | work=The Hindu | date=14 November 2011 | accessdate=19 March 2013 | author=Randor Guy | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6FYevXcsT | archivedate=1 April 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.hindu.com/2001/07/27/stories/09270225.htm | title=Talent, charisma and much more | work=[[The Hindu]] | date=27 July 2001 | accessdate=19 March 2013 | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6FYeUtgP9 | archivedate=1 April 2013}}</ref>


''Parasakthi'' did not begin well for Ganesan. After 3000 feet of the film was shot, Meiyappan was dissatisfied with Ganesan's performance and suggested that he be replaced by [[K. R. Ramaswamy|K. R. Ramasami]], then a popular actor and singer. Producer Perumal refused to have Ganesan replaced, and after several hurdles, he ultimately decided to continue the film with him.<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 2" /> Ganesan was paid a monthly salary of <!--Pls adjust this amount for inflation-->{{INRConvert|250}} for acting in the film.<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 3">{{cite journal | url=http://i1303.photobucket.com/albums/ag149/kailash29792/Parasakthi%20-%20Ultimate%20Goddess/parasakthi3_zps33dac973.jpg?t=1365565790 | title=Parasakthi - Ultimate Goddess [Page 3] | accessdate=13 January 2013 | journal=Galatta Cinema | year=2012 | month=August | volume=6 | issue=5 | page=pg. 128}}</ref> [[S. S. Rajendran]], who was also a successful stage artist, debuted in ''Parasakthi'' after the advice of political leader [[C. N. Annadurai]].<ref>{{cite book | url=http://books.google.co.in/books?id=65Aqrna4o5oC&pg=PA67&lpg=PA67&dq=ss+rajendran+parasakthi&source=bl&ots=ZVgCvugJ1i&sig=GUEsAM1eEM5Mmk8w1OiwIr7lz8w&hl=en&sa=X&ei=CVNUUbPHK8TrrQeznoDgCQ&ved=0CDYQ6AEwATgK#v=onepage&q=ss%20rajendran%20parasakthi&f=false | title=Tamil Cinema: The Cultural Politics of India's Other Film Industry | publisher=Psychology Press | author=Selvaraj Velayutham | year=2008 | page=67 | isbn=9780203930373}}</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 | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6FYeldET5 | archivedate=1 April 2013}}</ref> [[Pandari Bai]] was also signed to play an important role, after AVM was impressed with her performance in ''Raja Vikrama'' (1950).<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/fr/2003/02/14/stories/2003021401030300.htm | title=Actress who glowed with inner beauty | work=The Hindu | date=February 14, 2003 | accessdate=April 04, 2013 | author=Randor Guy | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6Fcxa53T3 | archivedate=4 April 2013}}</ref>
''Parasakthi'' did not begin well for Ganesan. After 3000 feet of the film was shot, Meiyappan was dissatisfied with Ganesan's performance and suggested that he be replaced by [[K. R. Ramaswamy|K. R. Ramasami]], then a popular actor and singer. Producer Perumal refused to have Ganesan replaced, and after several hurdles, he ultimately decided to continue the film with him.<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 2" /> Ganesan was paid a monthly salary of <!--Pls adjust this amount for inflation-->{{INRConvert|250}} for acting in the film.<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 3">{{cite journal | url=http://i1303.photobucket.com/albums/ag149/kailash29792/Parasakthi%20-%20Ultimate%20Goddess/parasakthi3_zps33dac973.jpg?t=1365565790 | title=Parasakthi - Ultimate Goddess [Page 3] | accessdate=13 January 2013 | journal=Galatta Cinema | year=2012 | month=August | volume=6 | issue=5 | page=pg. 128}}</ref> [[S. S. Rajendran]], who was also a successful stage artist, debuted in ''Parasakthi'' after the advice of political leader [[C. N. Annadurai]].<ref>{{cite book | url=http://books.google.co.in/books?id=65Aqrna4o5oC&pg=PA67&lpg=PA67&dq=ss+rajendran+parasakthi&source=bl&ots=ZVgCvugJ1i&sig=GUEsAM1eEM5Mmk8w1OiwIr7lz8w&hl=en&sa=X&ei=CVNUUbPHK8TrrQeznoDgCQ&ved=0CDYQ6AEwATgK#v=onepage&q=ss%20rajendran%20parasakthi&f=false | title=Tamil Cinema: The Cultural Politics of India's Other Film Industry | publisher=Psychology Press | author=Selvaraj Velayutham | year=2008 | page=67 | isbn=9780203930373}}</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 | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6FYeldET5 | archivedate=1 April 2013}}</ref> [[Pandari Bai]] was also signed to play an important role, after AVM was impressed with her performance in ''Raja Vikrama'' (1950).<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/fr/2003/02/14/stories/2003021401030300.htm | title=Actress who glowed with inner beauty | work=The Hindu | date=February 14, 2003 | accessdate=April 04, 2013 | author=Randor Guy | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6Fcxa53T3 | archivedate=4 April 2013}}</ref> Poet [[Kannadasan]] declined the offer to be one of the film's lyricists because of "some inconvenience", and instead acted in a minor role as a court judge, as he was "determined to take part in the ''Parasakthi'' movie".<ref>http://www.sangam.org/2011/10/Remembering_Kannadasan.php</ref>


The dialogues of the film, written by Karunanidhi, critically examined the social issues of the time and holds an important part in the [[Dravidian Movement]].<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 2">{{cite journal | url=http://i1303.photobucket.com/albums/ag149/kailash29792/Parasakthi%20-%20Ultimate%20Goddess/parasakthi2_zpsf4819295.jpg?t=1365565780 | title=Parasakthi - Ultimate Goddess [Page 2] | accessdate=17 January 2013 | journal=Galatta Cinema | year=2012 | month=August | volume=6 | issue=5 | page=pg. 127}}</ref> The cinematography was handled by S. Maruti Rao, while the songs were choreographed by Heeralal.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.nadigarthilagam.com/filmographyp1.htm | title=filmography p1 | work=Nadigarthilagam.com | accessdate=April 6, 2013 | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6FgB7ozxu | archivedate=April 6, 2013}}</ref> The film's climax song ''Ellorum Vazha Vendum'' was used as [[stock footage]] of the political leaders [[Rajaji]], [[Periyar E. V. Ramasamy|E.V.Ra Periyar]], [[Bhakthavatchalam]], Annadurai, and Karunanidhi.<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 3"/>
The dialogues of the film, written by Karunanidhi, critically examined the social issues of the time and holds an important part in the [[Dravidian Movement]].<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 2">{{cite journal | url=http://i1303.photobucket.com/albums/ag149/kailash29792/Parasakthi%20-%20Ultimate%20Goddess/parasakthi2_zpsf4819295.jpg?t=1365565780 | title=Parasakthi - Ultimate Goddess [Page 2] | accessdate=17 January 2013 | journal=Galatta Cinema | year=2012 | month=August | volume=6 | issue=5 | page=pg. 127}}</ref> The cinematography was handled by S. Maruti Rao, while the songs were choreographed by Heeralal.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.nadigarthilagam.com/filmographyp1.htm | title=filmography p1 | work=Nadigarthilagam.com | accessdate=April 6, 2013 | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6FgB7ozxu | archivedate=April 6, 2013}}</ref> The film's climax song ''Ellorum Vazha Vendum'' was used as [[stock footage]] of the political leaders [[Rajaji]], [[Periyar E. V. Ramasamy|E.V.Ra Periyar]], [[Bhakthavatchalam]], Annadurai, and Karunanidhi.<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 3"/>
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==Reception and legacy==
==Reception and legacy==
[[Image:Sivaji Parasakthi.jpg|thumb|right|220px|The court scene from the film, which propelled [[Sivaji Ganesan]] to stardom overnight|thumb]]
[[Image:Sivaji Parasakthi.jpg|thumb|right|220px|Ganesan's performance in the film's court scene was considered to be one of the major highlights|thumb]]
After months of shooting and preparations, ''Parasakthi'' was released on 17 October 1952, coinciding with [[Deepavali|Diwali Day]].<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 1"/> 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.<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 3"/><!--I want this part to be contain all the great feats the film achieved, eg: the iconic court scene, and the film being a trendsetter for powerful dialogues--> Regarded as the first significant attempt by the [[Dravidian Movement]] to use media for propaganda, ''Parasakthi'' catapulted Ganesan to fame overnight and evoked comparisons with [[Hollywood]] actor [[Spencer Tracy]].<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 3"/> Ganesan's performance in the film's court scene was also very well received by people, and was considered to be the highlight of the film.<ref name="forever sivaji" /><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.hindu.com/2001/03/14/stories/0414401y.htm | title=Talk of the town | work=The Hindu | date=March 14, 2001 | accessdate=2013-04-09 | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6FoZ0MH8W | archivedate=12 April 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.rediff.com/entertai/2002/oct/14siv.htm | title=How V C Ganesan became Sivaji Ganesan | work=Rediff | date=14 October 2002 | accessdate=9 April 2013 | author=Shobha Warrier | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6FoZ8ta5L | archivedate=12 April 2013}}</ref><ref name="Ultimate star" /> The film took a very big opening and became an instant commercial success.<ref name=BLAST/> It ran for over 175 days in several theatres, including the [[Madurai]]-based Thangam theatre, which was noted as [[Asia]]'s largest theatre of its time, and ''Parasakthi'' was among the first films to be screened there.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/climax-to-thangam-theatre-its-razed-down/article2358763.ece | title=Climax to Thangam Theatre — it's razed down | work=The Hindu | accessdate=9 April 2013 | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6FoYoWFmr | archivedate=12 April 2013}}</ref><ref name="Economic">{{cite web | url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2011-08-05/news/29855008_1_cinema-hall-cinema-theatre-owners-association-starrer | title=Curtains come down on Thangam theatre, once considered Asia's largest | work=[[The Economic Times]] | date=5 August 2011 | accessdate=22 March 2013 | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6FYgHPKxH | archivedate=1 April 2013}}</ref> It later completed 200 days, being dubbed as a "silver jubilee" hit.<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 3"/> In celebration of the film's 50th year,<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/mp/2002/11/04/stories/2002110400180300.htm | title=He played 300 different roles | work=The Hindu | date=4 November 2002 | accessdate=9 April 2013 | author=S. Muttiah | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6FoYcvOJw | archivedate=12 April 2013}}</ref> Ganesan's autobiography titled ''Sivaji Ganesan: Autobiography of An Actor'' was released on October 1 2002 in Tamil, exactly a year after the actor's death in 2001. The English version was released exactly five years later in 2007.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.sangam.org/2008/11/Sivaji_Ganesan.php | title=Book Review : Autobiography of Actor - Politician Sivaji Ganesan | work=Ilankai Tamil Sangam | date=9 November 2008 | accessdate=12 April 2013 | author=Sachi Sri Kantha}}</ref> ''Parasakthi'' is also included with other Sivaji Ganesan-starrers in ''8 Ulaga Adhisayam Sivaji'', a compilation DVD featuring Ganesan's "iconic performances in the form of scenes, songs and stunts" which was released in May 2012.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/for-the-love-of-sivaji/article3412363.ece | title=For the love of Sivaji | work=The Hindu | date=May 12, 2012 | accessdate=March 28, 2013 | author=Aruna V. Iyer | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6FQo6UhgT | archivedate=1 April 2013}}</ref>
After months of shooting and preparations, ''Parasakthi'' was released on 17 October 1952, coinciding with [[Deepavali|Diwali Day]].<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 1"/> 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.<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 3"/><!--I want this part to be contain all the great feats the film achieved, eg: the iconic court scene, and the film being a trendsetter for powerful dialogues--> Regarded as the first significant attempt by the [[Dravidian Movement]] to use media for propaganda, ''Parasakthi'' catapulted Ganesan to fame overnight and evoked comparisons with [[Hollywood]] actor [[Spencer Tracy]].<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 3"/> Ganesan's performance in the film's court scene was also very well received by people, and was considered to be the highlight of the film.<ref name="forever sivaji" /><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.hindu.com/2001/03/14/stories/0414401y.htm | title=Talk of the town | work=The Hindu | date=March 14, 2001 | accessdate=2013-04-09 | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6FoZ0MH8W | archivedate=12 April 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.rediff.com/entertai/2002/oct/14siv.htm | title=How V C Ganesan became Sivaji Ganesan | work=Rediff | date=14 October 2002 | accessdate=9 April 2013 | author=Shobha Warrier | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6FoZ8ta5L | archivedate=12 April 2013}}</ref><ref name="Ultimate star" /> The film took a very big opening and became an instant commercial success.<ref name=BLAST/> It ran for over 175 days in several theatres, including the [[Madurai]]-based Thangam theatre, which was noted as [[Asia]]'s largest theatre of its time, and ''Parasakthi'' was among the first films to be screened there.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/climax-to-thangam-theatre-its-razed-down/article2358763.ece | title=Climax to Thangam Theatre — it's razed down | work=The Hindu | accessdate=9 April 2013 | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6FoYoWFmr | archivedate=12 April 2013}}</ref><ref name="Economic">{{cite web | url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2011-08-05/news/29855008_1_cinema-hall-cinema-theatre-owners-association-starrer | title=Curtains come down on Thangam theatre, once considered Asia's largest | work=[[The Economic Times]] | date=5 August 2011 | accessdate=22 March 2013 | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6FYgHPKxH | archivedate=1 April 2013}}</ref> It later completed 200 days, being dubbed as a "silver jubilee" hit.<ref name="GALATTA PAGE 3"/>
In celebration of the film's 50th year,<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/mp/2002/11/04/stories/2002110400180300.htm | title=He played 300 different roles | work=The Hindu | date=4 November 2002 | accessdate=9 April 2013 | author=S. Muttiah | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6FoYcvOJw | archivedate=12 April 2013}}</ref> Ganesan's autobiography titled ''Sivaji Ganesan: Autobiography of An Actor'' was released on October 1 2002 in Tamil, exactly a year after the actor's death in 2001. The English version was released exactly five years later in 2007.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.sangam.org/2008/11/Sivaji_Ganesan.php | title=Book Review : Autobiography of Actor - Politician Sivaji Ganesan | work=Ilankai Tamil Sangam | date=9 November 2008 | accessdate=12 April 2013 | author=Sachi Sri Kantha}}</ref> ''Parasakthi'' is also included with other Sivaji Ganesan-starrers in ''8 Ulaga Adhisayam Sivaji'', a compilation DVD featuring Ganesan's "iconic performances in the form of scenes, songs and stunts" which was released in May 2012.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/for-the-love-of-sivaji/article3412363.ece | title=For the love of Sivaji | work=The Hindu | date=May 12, 2012 | accessdate=March 28, 2013 | author=Aruna V. Iyer | archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6FQo6UhgT | archivedate=1 April 2013}}</ref>


==Contemporary reviews==
==Contemporary reviews==

Revision as of 12:23, 26 April 2013

Parasakthi
File:Parasakthi.jpg
Promotional poster
Directed byR. Krishnan
S. Panju
Screenplay byM. Karunanidhi
Produced byP. A. Perumal Mudaliar
StarringSivaji Ganesan
S. V. Sahasranamam
S. S. Rajendran
Sriranjani Jr.
Pandari Bai
CinematographyS. Maruti Rao
Edited byPanjabi
Music byR. Sudarsanam
Background score: Saraswathi Stores Orchestra[1]
Release date
17 October 1952
Running time
170 minutes
CountryIndia
LanguageTamil

Parasakthi ([The Goddess] Error: {{Lang-xx}}: text has italic markup (help)) is a 1952 Indian Tamil social drama film directed by R. Krishnan and S. Panju, under the banner of National Pictures. The film stars Sivaji Ganesan in his debut, while Pandari Bai, Sriranjani Jr., S. S. Rajendran and S. V. Sahasranamam appear in supporting roles. It was produced by P. A. Perumal Mudaliar and funded by A. V. Meiyappan of AVM Productions, and is based on a stage drama of the same name, written by Pavalar Balasundaram.[1] The film narrates the misfortunes that befall the members of a Tamil family during World War II, like the youngest sister losing her husband shortly after marriage and becoming the victim of several attempted molests by many men, and the protagonist becoming insane after losing all his wealth.

The screenplay and dialogues for Parasakthi were written by M. Karunanidhi, who would later became the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.[2] The film's soundtrack was composed by R. Sudarsanam. Parasakthi was released on 17 October 1952, coinciding with Diwali day, and ran into trouble because of its portrayal of Brahmins and Hindu customs and practices in poor light, and certain sections of the public even demanded that the film be banned. Nevertheless, it was critically acclaimed and became a commercial success, with critics praising its dialogues and the actor's performances in particular. It later became a trendsetter for dialogues and acting. Several Tamil films came after this with dialogue orientation and became hugely successful. The film celebrated its "diamond jubilee" year in January 2013.[3]

Plot

Chandrasekaran, Gnanasekaran and Gunasekaran are three Indian immigrant brothers living in Rangoon, Burma. Their younger sister Kalyani was brought up in their hometown Madras by their father. Her marriage is fixed and the brothers plan to visit India to attend the 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. The ship however fails to reach Madras on time due to the dangers of the war, and Kalyani's marriage takes place without Gunasekaran attending it.

As time passes, Kalyani becomes pregnant. But on the day she delivers her child, her husband and her father die, leaving her and the child destitute. Her house now auctioned off, she makes her living by hawking food on the streets. After several months, Gunasekaran finally arrives in Madras but is robbed of all his belongings, after being given an intoxicating brew. Reduced to the status of a pauper, he is hesitant to meet his family but decides to stay in Madras. After Gunasekaran learns of his father's death and Kalyani's poverty, he finally comes across his destitute sister at Madurai, but does not reveal his identity to her due to his poverty, yet hovers around to protect her. Kalyani is irritated by the stranger's "insane" behavior. He gets enraged by the happenings around the society and becomes sarcastic.

Kalyani is nearly molested by a vagabond named Venu, but is quickly saved by Gunasekaran. She later leaves Madurai and arrives at Tiruchi, where she gets employed as the maid of blackmarketeer Narayana Pillai, who appears honest to the outside world. He also tries to molest her, though she is later saved, and leaves the job. When searching for his sister, Gunasekaran comes across Vimala, a wealthy woman to who he explains the miserable status of him and his sister in the society. She gives him shelter in her house, but soon he leaves silently, and continues to search for Kalyani.

Meanwhile, as Japanese shelling intensifies in Burma, Chandrasekaran and Gnanasekaran decide to return to India. Chandrasekaran reaches India safely and becomes a session judge, 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 reaches Chandrasekaran's palatial house seeking food, but Chandrasekaran throws her out without recognising her. Finally, she seeks protection in a temple, but the temple priest also tries to molest her. Frustrated with life and unable to feed her child, Kalyani 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 gets imprisoned. Kalyani fights her case in the court with the judge being Chandrasekaran, who later faints on knowing her identity. Gunasekaran fights a battle in the court, explaining the misfortunes which 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, 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 by the court. A series of events leads to the entire family reuniting, with Vimala and Gunasekaran deciding to get married. The family subsequently work towards the upliftment of the poor by opening a home for them.

Cast

(L-R): Sahasranamam, Ganesan and Rajendran
Male cast
  • Sivaji Ganesan as Gunasekaran, the youngest of three brothers
  • S. V. Sahasranamam as Chandrasekaran, the eldest of three brothers
  • S. S. Rajendran as Gnanasekaran, the second of three brothers
  • Duraiswamy as Manickampillai, the father of the three brothers
  • T. K. Ramachandran as Venu, a local vagabond
  • K. M. Nambirajan as Vellai Swamy
  • Venkatraman as Thangappan, husband of Kalyani
  • V. K. Ramasamy as Narayana Pillai, a blackmarketeer
  • K. P. Kamatchi as the Temple Priest
  • M. N. Krishnan as Kuppan
  • Sakthivel as a servant
  • D. V. Narayanaswamy as Thambi Durai
  • V. K. Karthikeyan
Female cast
  • Sriranjani Jr. as Kalyani, the sister of the three brothers
  • Pandari Bai as Vimala
  • Susheela as Saraswati, Chandrasekaran's wife
  • Kannamma as Jolly
  • Angamuthu as a Fruit seller[4]
  • T. P. Muthulakshmi as Kantha
  • A. S. Jaya as Parvati

Production

Background

Parasakthi was a popular Tamil play written by Pavalar Balasundaram, a Tamil scholar. Around the same time, En Thangai (My Sister), written by T. S. Natarajan, became popular. Sivaji Ganesan, at that time a struggling stage actor, acted in En Thangai as "a brother sacrificing his love for the sake of his sightless kid sister". The pre-production crew at Central Studio, Coimbatore, initially planned to merge these two plays to make a film. However, Natarajan, the author of En Thangai disagreed to the idea, and indeed sold the rights of the play to another producer. The shooting of the film En Thangai began with Tiruchi Loganathan, then a popular playback artist, playing the lead role of the sacrificing brother. However, his performance was deemed poor by the director Ch. Narayanamurthy, and he was replaced by M. G. Ramachandran. Meanwhile, film distributor P. A. Perumal of National Pictures, with the patronage of A. V. Meiyappan of AVM Productions, bought film rights of Parasakthi. Mu. Karunanidhi was signed to write the script. Sivaji Ganesan, the stage actor of En Thangai was chosen to play the hero.[5] Ganesan had earlier dubbed for Telugu actor Mukkamala Krishnamurthi in the 1951 Tamil film Niraparadhi.[6][7]

Parasakthi did not begin well for Ganesan. After 3000 feet of the film was shot, Meiyappan was dissatisfied with Ganesan's performance and suggested that he be replaced by K. R. Ramasami, then a popular actor and singer. Producer Perumal refused to have Ganesan replaced, and after several hurdles, he ultimately decided to continue the film with him.[8] Ganesan was paid a monthly salary of ₹250 (US$3.00) for acting in the film.[9] S. S. Rajendran, who was also a successful stage artist, debuted in Parasakthi after the advice of political leader C. N. Annadurai.[10] Actress Raja Sulochana was initially cast as the female lead, but opted out due to her pregnancy, and was eventually replaced by Sriranjani Jr.[11] Pandari Bai was also signed to play an important role, after AVM was impressed with her performance in Raja Vikrama (1950).[12] Poet Kannadasan declined the offer to be one of the film's lyricists because of "some inconvenience", and instead acted in a minor role as a court judge, as he was "determined to take part in the Parasakthi movie".[13]

The dialogues of the film, written by Karunanidhi, critically examined the social issues of the time and holds an important part in the Dravidian Movement.[8] The cinematography was handled by S. Maruti Rao, while the songs were choreographed by Heeralal.[14] The film's climax song Ellorum Vazha Vendum was used as stock footage of the political leaders Rajaji, E.V.Ra Periyar, Bhakthavatchalam, Annadurai, and Karunanidhi.[9]

Themes

Info can be found at http://i1303.photobucket.com/albums/ag149/kailash29792/Parasakthi%20-%20Life%20and%20Times%20of%20a%20DMK%20Film/page3_zpsfc41628b.gif

Soundtrack

The music of Parasakthi was composed by R. Sudarsanam and the lyrics were written by Kannadasan, Bharathidasan, T. N. Ramaiah Nadu, Bharathiyar, Karunanidhi,[15] and Udumalai Narayana Kavi.[16] Relatively higher importance was given to the film's dialgoues over its music.[17] The dialogues were printed and sold separately like film song books. Parasakthi established this trend, which was eventually followed by later Tamil films.[18]

No.TitleLyricsSingersLength
1."Desam Gnanam Kalvi" C. S. Jayaraman3:26
2."Kaa Kaa Kaa" C. S. Jayaraman3:00
3."Nenju Porkku Thillaiye"BharathiyarC. S. Jayaraman4:50
4."Ill Vaazhviniley" T. S. Bhagavathi, M. H. Hussain2:07
5."Puthu Pennin"T. N. Ramaiah NaduM. S. Rajeswari4:23
6."Oh Rasikkum Seemane"KannadasanM. S. Rajeswari1:44
7."Ellorum"BharathidasanT. S. Bhagavathi, M. L. Vasanthakumari1:35
8."Konju Mozhi"BharathidasanT. S. Bhagavathi3:03
9."Poomaalai"KarunanidhiT. S. Bhagavathi3:01
10."Porule Illaarkku"M. KarunanidhiT. S. Bhagavathi3:37
11."Vaazhga Vaazhgave"BharathidasanM. L. Vasanthakumari5:00

Reception and legacy

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After months of shooting and preparations, Parasakthi was released on 17 October 1952, coinciding with Diwali Day.[1] 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.[9] Regarded as the first significant attempt by the Dravidian Movement to use media for propaganda, Parasakthi catapulted Ganesan to fame overnight and evoked comparisons with Hollywood actor Spencer Tracy.[9] Ganesan's performance in the film's court scene was also very well received by people, and was considered to be the highlight of the film.[18][19][20][17] The film took a very big opening and became an instant commercial success.[5] It ran for over 175 days in several theatres, including the Madurai-based Thangam theatre, which was noted as Asia's largest theatre of its time, and Parasakthi was among the first films to be screened there.[21][2] It later completed 200 days, being dubbed as a "silver jubilee" hit.[9]

In celebration of the film's 50th year,[22] Ganesan's autobiography titled Sivaji Ganesan: Autobiography of An Actor was released on October 1 2002 in Tamil, exactly a year after the actor's death in 2001. The English version was released exactly five years later in 2007.[23] Parasakthi is also included with other Sivaji Ganesan-starrers in 8 Ulaga Adhisayam Sivaji, a compilation DVD featuring Ganesan's "iconic performances in the form of scenes, songs and stunts" which was released in May 2012.[24]

Contemporary reviews

Contemporary reviews for Parasakthi have been mostly positive. Randor Guy of The Hindu said, "1952… an eventful year for Tamil cinema, the beginning of a new period" and added that "The film that ushered in that new era was Parasakthi written for the screen by another fast-rising star Mu. Karunanidhi", while concluding that the film would be "Remembered for the dialogue and the stunning performance of the new hero."[5] P. Balasubramania Mudaliar 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" and concluded, "If an Academy award were to be given to any picture, I have little doubt that this picture would be entitled on its merits to such an award."[25] In an interview with Shobha Warrier of Rediff, Tamil film historian S. Theodore Baskaran said, "Sivaji's best and most memorable films are his early ones." and mentioned that Ganesan was "very lucky to get a role in Parasakthi", which he praised for the "flowery dialogues".[17]

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."[26] Behindwoods praised the film for the "fiery dialogues, talented direction, and terrific acting by the cast".[27] 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".[28] The Sunday Indian called it "a classic DMK film scripted by M Karunanidhi".[29]

In a 2007 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."[30] In August 2012, South Indian 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".[1]

Controversies

Further information can be found at: http://i1303.photobucket.com/albums/ag149/kailash29792/Parasakthi%20-%20Life%20and%20Times%20of%20a%20DMK%20Film/page6_zps7474de6d.gif

Post release, Parasakthi was marred by numerous controversies, and was defined as "one of the most controversial films in the history of Tamil cinema" by film historian Theodore Baskaran.[31] 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. Scenes like a priest attempting to rape a woman in a temple were found to be very provocative. Some sections of the public demanded the film to be banned. 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 requested unsuccessfully to the Union Government to reconsider the film certification.[32] Nevertheless, rumours of the film's "probable ban" made the film more commercially successful, as Tamil magazine Pesum Padam stated.[9]

Ganesan's dialogues in the film also became controversial. The dialogue "Just because you came around chanting names and offered flowers to the stone, would it become a god", was accused of "mocking the audiences". His reference to Goddess Parasakthi as a stone created a stir, and the word "stone" was eventually censored. However, the message given by him was still "clear and the impact viral."[33]

Further reading

  • M. S. S. Pandian (1991). "Parasakthi: life and times of a Dmk film".
  • Randor Guy (April 23, 2011). "Parasakthi 1952". The Hindu.

See also

References

  1. ^ a b c d "Parasakthi - Ultimate Goddess [Page 1]". Galatta Cinema. 6 (5): pg. 126. 2012. Retrieved 17 January 2013. {{cite journal}}: |page= has extra text (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
  2. ^ a b "Curtains come down on Thangam theatre, once considered Asia's largest". The Economic Times. 5 August 2011. Archived from the original on 1 April 2013. Retrieved 22 March 2013.
  3. ^ M. Vandhana (7 January 2013). "'Parasakthi' completes 60 years". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 1 April 2013. Retrieved 18 January 2013.
  4. ^ Malathi Rangarajan (October 9, 2009). "Film-maker, writer and a diehard book lover". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 1 April 2013. Retrieved March 30, 2013.
  5. ^ a b c Randor Guy (April 24, 2011). "Parasakthi 1952". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 1 April 2013. Retrieved January 1, 2012.
  6. ^ Randor Guy (14 November 2011). "Niraparadhi 1951". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 1 April 2013. Retrieved 19 March 2013.
  7. ^ "Talent, charisma and much more". The Hindu. 27 July 2001. Archived from the original on 1 April 2013. Retrieved 19 March 2013.
  8. ^ a b "Parasakthi - Ultimate Goddess [Page 2]". Galatta Cinema. 6 (5): pg. 127. 2012. Retrieved 17 January 2013. {{cite journal}}: |page= has extra text (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
  9. ^ a b c d e f "Parasakthi - Ultimate Goddess [Page 3]". Galatta Cinema. 6 (5): pg. 128. 2012. Retrieved 13 January 2013. {{cite journal}}: |page= has extra text (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
  10. ^ Selvaraj Velayutham (2008). Tamil Cinema: The Cultural Politics of India's Other Film Industry. Psychology Press. p. 67. ISBN 9780203930373.
  11. ^ Randor Guy (March 5, 2013). "The queen of the screen". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 1 April 2013. Retrieved March 19, 2013.
  12. ^ Randor Guy (February 14, 2003). "Actress who glowed with inner beauty". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 4 April 2013. Retrieved April 04, 2013. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |accessdate= (help)
  13. ^ http://www.sangam.org/2011/10/Remembering_Kannadasan.php
  14. ^ "filmography p1". Nadigarthilagam.com. Archived from the original on April 6, 2013. Retrieved April 6, 2013.
  15. ^ "Parasakthi Songs". Raaga.com. Retrieved 2013-03-19.
  16. ^ K. Jeshi (September 10, 2012). "Blockbusters of Coimbatore". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 1 April 2013. Retrieved March 30, 2013.
  17. ^ a b c "He was the ultimate star". Rediff. Archived from the original on 1 April 2013. Retrieved 19 March 2013.
  18. ^ a b "Forever Sivaji". IndiaGlitz. July 21, 2010. Archived from the original on 1 April 2013. Retrieved March 21, 2013.
  19. ^ "Talk of the town". The Hindu. March 14, 2001. Archived from the original on 12 April 2013. Retrieved 2013-04-09.
  20. ^ Shobha Warrier (14 October 2002). "How V C Ganesan became Sivaji Ganesan". Rediff. Archived from the original on 12 April 2013. Retrieved 9 April 2013.
  21. ^ "Climax to Thangam Theatre — it's razed down". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 12 April 2013. Retrieved 9 April 2013.
  22. ^ S. Muttiah (4 November 2002). "He played 300 different roles". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 12 April 2013. Retrieved 9 April 2013.
  23. ^ Sachi Sri Kantha (9 November 2008). "Book Review : Autobiography of Actor - Politician Sivaji Ganesan". Ilankai Tamil Sangam. Retrieved 12 April 2013.
  24. ^ Aruna V. Iyer (May 12, 2012). "For the love of Sivaji". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 1 April 2013. Retrieved March 28, 2013.
  25. ^ "Film Reviews - Nadigar Thilagam SIVAJI GANESAN". Freewebs.com. Archived from the original on 1 April 2013. Retrieved 19 January 2013.
  26. ^ "End of the world movies". Indiaglitz. 20 December 2012. Archived from the original on 1 April 2013. Retrieved 19 January 2013.
  27. ^ "tamil cinema social awareness". Behindwoods. 26 November 2011. Archived from the original on 1 April 2013. Retrieved 19 March 2013.
  28. ^ Muthiah S (2011). Madras Miscellany. East West Books. ISBN 978-93-80032-84-9.
  29. ^ "The story so far..." The Sunday Indian. July 8, 2012. Retrieved April 04, 2013. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |accessdate= (help)
  30. ^ S. R. Ashok Kumar (13 July 2007). "Filmmakers' favourites". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 1 April 2013. Retrieved 2 March 2013.
  31. ^ S. Theodore Baskaran (1996). The eye of the serpent: An introduction to Tamil cinema. p. 111. Retrieved 13 January 2013.
  32. ^ A. Srivathsan (12 June 2006). "Films and the politics of convenience". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 1 April 2013. Retrieved 2008-04-27.
  33. ^ A. Srivathsan (February 2, 2013). "A revolution betrayed". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 1 April 2013. Retrieved March 28, 2013.

External links

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