Ayitham

Ayitham is a Malayalam language drama film released in 1987. The iconic veteran actor Mohanlal plays the leading role, alongside the talented actress Ambika and the comical Jagadish, all together creating an amalgamation of feel-good moments, emotional turmoil, and societal dilemmas. Directed by Venu Nagavally, the film explores themes of social injustice, poverty, love, and the human spirit's resilience.

Set in an unnamed rural town in Kerala, Ayitham serves as a close-knit reflection of the then contemporary society, mirroring the struggle of the downtrodden and the silent revolt that brews in their hearts. Mohanlal essays the role of a selfless character, who strives tirelessly for the betterment of his community, instigating a deep desire within the audience to root for his cause.

Adorned with natural charm, Mohanlal delivers a sublime performance, navigating the range of human emotions with admirable ease, making the viewer experience the character's distress and happiness, despair and hope. His character's journey, brimming with struggles, aspires to elevate the lives of his community, assisting and advocating for those who can't stand up for themselves. Ayitham beautifully underlines the fact that societal hierarchy should not dictate the value of a human life.

Playing against Mohanlal, we have Ambika who embodies a strong and independent female character, tracing a progressive pattern in Malayalam cinema. She plays a woman surviving the hardships of life with courage and optimism. Her character becomes the principle pillar of strength and inspiration for Mohanlal. The love story that develops between the characters portrayed by Mohanlal and Ambika is an integral part of the narrative, adding romance and a certain charm to the film.

Jagadish’s character, known for his comic timings, adds a dash of humor and light-hearted moments into this socially charged narrative. The comic relief provided by Jagadish's character is necessary, breaking up the intense and serious themes that are discussed. His character is pivotal, serving to balance the overall atmosphere of the film.

One of the main attractions of Ayitham is its soundtrack. The film’s music, beautifully crafted, complements the intricate weave of emotions, enhancing the overall experience. The songs, with their heartfelt lyrics, express the lingering despair, hope and love experienced by the characters, adding a lyrical depth to the narrative.

Ayitham doesn’t shy away from addressing grave societal issues head-on. It sheds light on the struggles of the marginalized communities, reminding us of the long-standing social inequalities embedded in society. It acts as a stark reminder for us to empathize and uplift those in need.

Ayitham also explores the importance and power of education in breaking social barriers and promoting change. It emphasizes the need to provide equal opportunities to all, irrespective of their social standing or economic situation.

The cinematography of Ayitham plays a significant role in the success of the film. Beautifully capturing the scenic rural landscapes of Kerala, coupled with youthful and energetic performances, the film creates an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Overall, Ayitham is not just a movie; it is a perfect blend of human relationships, struggle, ambition, and societal norms. The nuanced performances by Mohanlal, Ambika, and Jagadish are unforgettable, bringing life to the characters they play. Deep, detailed and expertly directed by Venu Nagavally, Ayitham is a film that moves you, intrigues you and makes you think, delivering a powerful punch of humanity right where it's needed the most. A must-watch for those who enjoy serious drama interspersed with light-hearted moments and thoughtful dialogues. It's a film you should not miss if you are a fan of Malayalam cinema and the legend, Mohanlal.