Text credit: Charishma Thankappan

One of the most monumental personages in Malayalam cinema, Padmarajan left his mark upon an entire generation of films. The 1980s can hence be easily called the golden period of Mollywood, marked by the genius of Padmarajan, along with other luminous filmmakers such as Bharathan and Priyadarshan. His films are known for radiant women characters in bold roles never seen before and seldom seen since. Here’s a look at some of his scintillating films:

Shalini Ente Koottukaari (1980)

Source: YouTube

The film revolves around the life of Shalini, played by actress Shobha. Her story is narrated by her close friend Ammu, characterized by actress Jalaja. Shalini has been an emotional wreck, living under her unyielding father and her step-mother. She therefore gravitates towards her college life to seek solace. Her woe is aggravated by the suicide of her brother. She goes on to fall in love with a lecturer in her college, played by Sukumaran. But the nature of their relationship, that of a student and teacher causes a social stir. Despite ignoring the society, the lovers are never able to get married as Shalini passes away, succumbing to brain tumour.

Desatanakkili Karayarilla (1986)

Source: YouTube

Directed by Padmarajan, the film is the story about two schoolgirls who elope. The film has a sterling star cast of Mohanlal, Urvashi, Karthika, and Shaari. It is one of the first Indian films that explored womance on screen. The film was an instant hit and was welcomed by the audience.

Thoovanathumbikal (1987)

Source: projectedperspectives.wordpress.com

A film that generations of Malayali men grew up on and hold close to their heart, Thoovanathumbikal gifted the Malayali audience the sparkling character of Clara, who has perhaps been unrivalled by any other woman character in Mollywood. Written and directed by Padmarajan, it is considered one of his best creations. The film is a love triangle between Jayakrishnan (Mohanlal), his fiancé Radha (Parvathy), and Clara (Sumalatha), the escort with whom Jayakrishnan falls in love.

Moonnam Pakkam (1988)

Source: YouTube

Another gem written and directed by Padmarajan, this film is one of the classics of Malayalam cinema and showcases the true genius of the man. The film is a heart wrenching depiction of a grandfather’s unbearable loss of his grandson. Thilakan, who plays Thampi, delivers one of the most stellar performances of his career.

Njan Gandharvan (1991)

Source: YouTube

One of the most rare successful fantasy stories in Malayalam cinema, the film was heartily embraced by the audience. It is the story of a young girl Bhama (Suparna Anand) who is besotted with her obsessive love for a celestial lover (Nitish Bharadwaj). Her imagined sweetheart is one who appears only to her out of a wooden statue. The film also featured great music.

The post Remembering Padmarajan, The Legend of Malayalam Cinema appeared first on FWD Life | The Premium Lifestyle Magazine |.