Saattai(2012)
Saattai (2012) is a Tamil-language drama film written and directed by M. Anbazhagan. The cast includes Samuthirakani, Yuvan, Mahima Nambiar, and Thambi Ramaiah. The story follows Dayalan, a teacher who joins a government school in Vanthaarangudi village. He is unhappy with the lazy education system and tries to reform the school. His efforts are opposed by the Assistant Head Master, Singaperumal. The film explores themes of education reform, sexual abuse, and forgiveness. It received mixed reviews for being preachy but was praised for its honest intentions. The film won the Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Film. The soundtrack was composed by D. Imman. Saattai was released in 2012 and later had a spin-off titled Appa (2016) and a sequel titled Adutha Saattai (2019).
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- JioHotstar, YouTube
- Theatrical Release
- 21 September 2012
- Director
- Anbazhagan
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 25m
- Rating
- 8.1/10
Storyline
A passionate teacher named Dayalan joins a broken government school. He wants to change the lazy system and make students actually learn. But the selfish Assistant Head Master fights him at every step. Dayalan must overcome lies, attacks, and tragedy to save the school.
“One teacher. One school. One chance to change everything.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Saattai
Cast reunions in this film: Thambi Ramaiah & Samuthirakani (15 films together), Pandi & Black Pandi (7 films together), Pandi & Thambi Ramaiah (2 films together), Thambi Ramaiah & M. Jeevan (2 films together), Thambi Ramaiah & Mahima Nambiar (2 films together), and Thambi Ramaiah & Black Pandi (2 films together).
Trivia
- The film's director M. Anbazhagan was a former assistant to director Ameer.
- Actor Soori, who plays a supporting role, was also the film's dialogue writer.
- The movie's title 'Saattai' translates to 'whip' in English, symbolizing discipline in education.
- It was partially shot in real government school locations in Tamil Nadu for authenticity.
- The film addresses the issue of corporal punishment in schools, which was a topical debate in India.
- Composer D. Imman, known for folk melodies, provided the music, deviating from his usual commercial style.
- Lead actor Samuthirakani, also a director, brought his experience in socially relevant cinema to the role.