Thaniyavarthanam

Thaniyavarthanam is a profound Malayalam film released in 1987 that explores severe societal constraints, superstition, and the inexorable grip of fate that defies rationality and logic. Directed by the acclaimed Sibi Malayil and written by the master of scripting, A.K Lohithadas, the narrative delves into the world of its protagonist, Balan Mash, played impeccably by Mammootty.

The film is set in the panoramic landscapes of a typical rural Kerala, cloaked in its unique rustic charm. The narrative orbits around the protagonist Balan Mash, a schoolteacher by profession with a tolerant, composed disposition. Mammootty aptly portrays the journey of this diligent and ever-smiling character. The emotional complexity of his role is brought out to perfection through impressive acting.

Balan Mash is part of an orthodox Brahmin family, with their lineage tainted by a grim history which has scarred the family. The family has a deep-seated dread of a jinx and firmly believes in a demoniacal possession that affects the eldest member of each generation. They believe it arises from a familial curse, causing endless suffering and eventually leading to a severe mental illness.

Thilakan plays the role of Balan Mash's uncle, the eldest among the immediate family. He's the first to exhibit signs of the speculated familial curse, leading to a sudden escalation of fear and panic within the clan. The film presents a poignant portrayal of human paranoia, superstition, and irrationality often leading to innocents' victimization and ostracization.

Apart from Mammootty and Thilakan, the film further boasts the talented cast of Mukesh, Philomina, Saritha and Kaviyoor Ponnamma. Mukesh plays a pivotal role, demonstrating a gamut of emotions complementing the storytelling. Each character forms an equal thread in the narrative fabric, impeccably bringing out the cultural, emotional, and psychological nuances of the society.

In Thaniyavarthanam, director Sibi Malayil confronts the societal malady of superstition, highlighting how blind faith can wreck lives and imprints a cycle of fear in the future generations. Malayil brilliantly uses the gripping narrative to initiate a dialogue about the importance of rational thinking. The screenplay by A.K Lohithadas is a testament to his genius, thought-provoking and heartbreaking, all the while maintaining a sense of realism.

Mammootty’s performance stands out as one of his career-best performances and perfectly captures Balan Mash's heartbreaking arc. Thilakan, with his powerful portrayal of a man haunted by fears of an impending doom, showcases his acting prowess. Mukesh, in his significant role, further bolsters the performances.

An integral part of the film's impact is the soul-stirring music by M.G Radhakrishnan. The score accentuates the narrative beautifully, enhancing the emotional resonance created by the storyline. The cinematography by S. Kumar, another highlight of Thaniyavarthanam, provides a delightful visual treat as it aptly captures the verdant rural beauty of Kerala in every frame.

Thaniyavarthanam in its essence, is a light shone on the detrimental effects of superstition in society. The film is a tragic exploration of human psyche, despair and suffering caused by illogical traditions and parochial beliefs. It seamlessly portrays a series of unfortunate events leading to a climax that will leave you pondering and encourages the viewer to challenge the societal norms imposed by tradition and superstition.

Even after thirty years, Thaniyavarthanam stands as a cinematic marvel for its fusion of brilliant cinematography, a thought-provoking script, the critical narrative and tremendous performances by the cast. The film, with its intense theme and strong performances, effectively speaks to the viewer regarding the psychological distress of humans under societal constraints.

In conclusion, Thaniyavarthanam is not just a film; it's an experience - a haunting introspection into the human conscience, societal hypocrisies, and traditions that sometimes shackle more than they preserve. The film leaves an indelible mark on the viewer and is highly recommended for anyone interested in a deep, thoughtful cinematic journey. It is a must-watch film for its stellar performances, gripping screenplay, and a powerful message.